Fossilized wood, also known as petrified wood, is formed when trees or wood are buried under sediment and mineral-rich water seeps in. Over time, the organic material is replaced by minerals, typically silica, which hardens and preserves the original structure of the wood. This process can take millions of years. The result is a stone-like material that retains the appearance of the original wood, including its rings and texture. Fossilized wood can be found in various locations around the world, often in areas that were once forests. It is valued for its beauty and is commonly used in jewelry and home decor.