Permineralized fossils form when solutions rich in minerals permeate porous tissue, such as bone or wood. Minerals precipitate out of solution and fill the pores and empty spaces. Some of the original organic material remains, but is now embedded in a mineral matrix (Schopf, 1975).

What does permineralization do to bones?

Permineralization is a fossilization process where the bone is flooded or soaked with ground water containing dissolved minerals – calcium carbonate or silica. Over time these minerals fill in the empty pores inside the bones. The hard parts of an organism like bone, teeth, and shell remain behind.

What happens in the process of permineralization?

Process. Permineralization, a type of fossilization, involves deposits of minerals within the cells of organisms. Water from the ground, lakes, or oceans seeps into the pores of organic tissue and forms a crystal cast with deposited minerals. ... The cell walls themselves remain intact surrounding the crystals.