How to Care for a Petrified Wood Object

Petrified wood is mineralised and often largely composed of silica, but it should still be treated as a crafted object. Polished areas can show fingerprints and fine scratches, natural edges may include fragile details, and a heavy piece can be damaged by an unstable display surface.

Handle it with clean, dry hands

Before moving the object, remove rings, watches and other hard accessories that could scrape the surface. Make sure your hands are clean and dry. For a large or heavy piece, plan the route and final position before lifting it, and use two people when necessary.

Support the object from its strongest, broadest area. Do not lift it by a narrow projection, mounted component or delicate natural edge. If the object has a base or fixing system, follow the method intended for that individual piece.

Dust gently

For routine care, a soft clean cloth or a soft natural-bristle brush is usually enough. Work slowly so dust is lifted rather than rubbed across the polished surface. A separate soft brush can be useful for cavities and textured areas.

Avoid abrasive pads, powdered cleaners and aggressive household products. Do not apply oil, wax or polish unless the finish and treatment of the individual object are known. A product that improves one surface may stain or dull another.

Use moisture sparingly

Do not soak petrified wood. If a finished, non-porous surface requires more than dry dusting, use only a barely damp soft cloth and dry the area immediately. Keep water away from cracks, joints, mounting hardware and porous natural zones. When in doubt, stop and ask for advice before cleaning further.

Choose a stable display position

Place the object on a level surface that can safely carry its weight. Use suitable discreet protection between the object and delicate furniture, but avoid unstable soft materials that allow it to rock. Wall-mounted pieces need fixings appropriate to both the weight of the object and the construction of the wall.

Avoid locations where the piece can be knocked by doors, bags or regular foot traffic. Strong heat sources and rapid environmental changes are also best avoided, particularly when the object includes metal, adhesive or other added components.

Know when to ask for help

A loose element, growing crack, unstable mount or damaged polished face should be assessed before further handling. Repairs and refinishing can permanently change the appearance of the material, so they should not be improvised.

For questions about a specific Petravo object, contact Petravo and include the name of the piece and a clear photograph of the area concerned. You can also view the current collection.

General conservation references: the Canadian Conservation Institute provides guidance on caring for stone objects and on careful handling of heritage objects.