Arizona's Petrified Forest

Took a road trip a few years ago and ended up going through the Petrified Forest in Arizona. What a place! Never saw any pictures of it before, and had a preconceived notion that there would be upright fossilized trees. Wrong about that, they're all flat but that didn't matter as the famed Arizona Rainbow Petrified Wood was abundant.

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The Significance of Arizona's Petrified Wood

Arizona's petrified wood is not just visually stunning; it also provides critical scientific insights. These fossilized remnants reveal information about the types of vegetation that existed millions of years ago. Studies indicate that during the Triassic period, some tree species like Araucarioxylon thrived in warm, swampy environments. Paleobotanists examine these specimens to understand climate changes and ecological shifts over. To a curator of mineral specimens like myself, its a great material as it is hard, and polishes well.

Go visit this park if you have the chance, it's well worth it. So is the Painted Desert, and the Meteor Crater National Monument nearer to Sedona.

P.S. Don't Forget you can be "Standing on the Corner in Windslow Arizona" on the way to the Meteor Crater.

The Fossil Find that changed everything!

No, we're not talking about Dinosaurs, or even the missing link for humans.

We're talking about the Burgess Shale Fauna.

Accidentally discovered in 1909, it remains the worlds most significant fossil discovery. Many of the fossils found at the fossil site appear to be early ancestors of higher lifeforms called cordates, a major group of animals that include human beings.

Prior to the find, scientists thought life in the Cambrian Sea (around 500 mya) consisted of a few Trilobites and Snails. Boy, were they wrong!! Watch the short video below.

With the fossils that were found, it was concluded that there was a "Cambrian Explosion of Life", with many of the Burgess Shale Fauna creatures probably being some of the first creatures to combine genetic traits to pass on. The pictures below are trace fossils of two of the fauna. With these creatures, life in the sea exploded with a great diversity of animals, and probably gave rise to all "cordates" or creatures with backbones!

Well, they say most great scientific discoveries are found by accident, and this was no exception. In 1909, a scientist was riding on a trail in the Canadian Rockies, and happened to look at a stone by the side of the trail, and saw something shiny. It was a fossil of one of the Burgess Creatures, and the rest, as they say, is history.

Unveiling the Mysteries Behind the Formation of Geodes

Geodes are nature's hidden gems, often cloaked in ordinary rock shells. Inside, they reveal a breathtaking display of crystals. These geological wonders are found in many places around the world. But how are they formed? Let’s explore the captivating process behind these exquisite formations.

What Are Geodes?

Geodes are hollow, spherical rocks typically found in volcanic or sedimentary settings. They start as cavities or bubbles, usually formed by gases or steam escaping during volcanic eruptions. Over time, mineral-rich water infiltrates these cavities, leading to the growth of stunning crystals. Common minerals found in geodes include quartz, calcite, and amethyst. Each mineral adds its unique charm to these natural treasures.

For example, amethyst geodes can have crystal clusters that range from a light lavender to deep purple, attracting not only collectors but also those interested in their supposed calming properties. In contrast, calcite geodes can sometimes resemble crystal gardens, with formations that remind us of delicate winter icicles.

A close-up view of a geode showcasing its stunning amethyst crystals.

Types of Geodes

Geodes come in various types, each showcasing its distinct beauty. Here are a few notable varieties:

• Amethyst Geodes: Famous for their beautiful purple crystals, amethyst geodes are especially popular for their aesthetic appeal and believed healing properties. Data suggests that demand for amethyst has increased by 15% over the last five years.

  
  

• Calcite Geodes: These often contain clear or white crystals and may showcase fascinating formations like stalactites. Some calcite geodes are known for their meticulous patterns, captivating observers.

  
  

• Agate Geodes: Recognized for their banded appearance, agate geodes can exhibit a vibrant array of colors, making them a favorite among rock collectors. Various color banding patterns can emerge, adding to their allure.

  
  

Each type of geode not only sparks visual interest but also serves as a reminder of the complex geological processes that create them.

Where to Find Geodes

Many regions around the globe are renowned for their geode deposits. In the United States, states like Arizona, Iowa, and California are hotspots for geode hunting. For example, the geodes of Keokuk, Iowa, are known for their stunning quartz and calcite crystals, making it a must-visit for geology enthusiasts.

Beyond the U.S., Brazil and Uruguay are significant sources of geodes. In fact, some of the largest amethyst geodes, measuring over five feet in height, have been unearthed in the caves of Uruguay.

For anyone intrigued by the idea of finding their own geodes, many locations offer guided tours where you can dig for these treasures. The thrill of uncovering your own geode is a remarkable experience, allowing you to connect with the natural world.