Indonesian opalised wood is petrified wood in which the grains have been replaced by opal. Indonesia is a volcanic island chain and when wood is buried by volcanic ash, silica is mobilised from the ash and penetrates the wood, replacing the grains. Opal is a hydrated silica, and when accompanied by other elements such as minerals and manganese, produces a beautiful array of colours. Opalised wood is quite rare, and each piece stunningly unique.