Teardrop-shaped cabochon of fossilized palm root from Indonesia, 46–68 mm. Mirror polished convex face, flat back. Each piece displays the vascular bundle network of the palm tree preserved in silica for millions of years—plant structure transformed into mineral, unique by definition.
Item Specifications
| Mineral |
Fossilized palm root (silicified chalcedony) |
| Dimensions |
46–68 × 28–45 × 5–7 mm depending on variant (±0.5 mm) |
| Shape and Back |
Freeform teardrop, flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polished |
| Hardness |
6.5–7 Mohs — we recommend a closed bezel setting |
| Origin |
Indonesia (Java / Kalimantan) |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Item Type |
Available in 5 variants of different sizes |
About this particular piece
The background ranges from toasted beige, brown, and gray; the cells often appear darker than the infill, creating an organic map that no other mineral mimics. The XL-scale teardrop format (46–68 mm) makes these pieces natural candidates for large format pendants or custom bezels. Each variant has its exact dimensions in the name.
How fossilized palm root forms
Silicification occurs when plant tissue is buried in volcanic sediments rich in dissolved silica. Atom by atom, SiO₂ replaces organic matter (cellulose, lignin), preserving the cellular geometry. In Indonesia, this process took place in Neogene volcanic basins (5–23 Mya), leaving fossils with the palm's vascular architecture visible at a microscopic level.
What setting it works for
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Statement pendants with 925 silver bezel — the XL size and unique pattern make these pieces ideal candidates where the mineral is the absolute protagonist.
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Copper or brass bezel — the earthy tones of the fossil contrast well with copper; brass adds warmth.
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Large format wire wrap — the polished surface and flat back facilitate wire wrapping.
Fossilized palm root in the lapidary market
Fossilized palm root from Indonesia is one of the most prized materials in the lapidary fossil circuit: it combines geological rarity with a highly recognizable visual pattern. In crystal tradition, fossils are associated with patience, memory, and connection to deep time — the idea that something as fragile as a root can survive millions of years speaks to permanence within change.
The symbolic properties attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize genuine fossilized palm root
The cellular pattern should be three-dimensional under magnification: cells with depth, not a superficial print. Hardness ~6.5–7 Mohs; not scratched by a steel knife. Resin imitations are notably lighter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the pattern natural or printed?
Natural. It is the cellular microstructure of a palm root preserved in silica for millions of years. No detectable treatment; statement based on lapidary observation.
What setting is it intended for?
We recommend a closed bezel in 925 silver, copper, or brass. The XL size suggests custom settings made to fit each piece.
How do I know which variant is mine?
Each variant is numbered with its exact dimensions. The piece you receive will correspond to the selected variant number.
Are the measurements exact?
Tolerance ±0.5 mm, as these are individual freeform pieces, not industrially calibrated.
What era is the fossil from?
The deposits in Java and Kalimantan are estimated to be from the Neogene (5–23 million years ago). Exact dating requires in-situ stratigraphic analysis.
How do I care for it?
Warm water and neutral soap, dry with a soft cloth. Avoid ultrasonics. More at jewelry care.
View collection: cabochons for jewelry. See also lapidary selection.
