How is petrified wood formed?
The wood in Indonesia is fossilized because over millions of years it was buried under certain conditions and replaced by mineral deposits. The formation of petrified wood usually begins when trees are buried by floods, landslides, volcanic eruptions, or other events that cause them to be deprived of oxygen and unable to rot.
As the wood becomes buried, minerals such as quartz, calcite, and pyrite from the surrounding soil or water begin to be deposited in the wood, slowly replacing it. This process can take hundreds or even thousands of years, and it depends on factors such as the type of wood, ambient temperature, humidity and mineral availability.
The petrified wood in Indonesia comes mainly from trees of the genus Agathis. These trees belong to the Araucaria family and are widespread in southern and southeastern Asia, including Indonesia.
Most species of Agathis trees are hardwood evergreen trees that can reach an impressive height and typically grow in humid subtropical forests. The fossilized wood in Indonesia is believed to have formed around 20 million years ago when these regions were covered by dense forests.
Agathis trees are known to have a high resin content which has contributed to the wood becoming petrified wood in Indonesia. The resin prevents air and water from penetrating the wood, creating the conditions for petrification. During petrification, the wood is replaced with minerals such as quartz, calcite, and pyrite, giving it its characteristic hardness and texture.
How do you care for a petrified wood sink?
The care of natural stone sinks is important to maintain the beauty and longevity of the material. Here are some tips on how to best care for natural stone sinks:
Clean the sink regularly with a mild detergent and warm water. Avoid abrasive cleaning products that could scratch or damage the surface of the stone.
Dry the sink thoroughly after use to avoid staining.
Avoid contact of the sink with acidic or alkaline substances such as vinegar, lemon juice or detergents containing such substances, as they may damage the stone or change the colour.
Avoid contact with sharp or pointed objects that could scratch the stone.
Do not use hot pots or pans on the sink as high temperatures can damage the material.
If necessary, apply a stone sealer to protect and seal the surface of the stone.
Avoid using hard water as it can leave limescale on the stone. If you have hard water, clean the sink regularly to prevent limescale build-up.
By following these simple care tips, you can ensure that your natural stone sink will remain in top condition and retain its natural beauty for many years to come.