opalization

Opalization is a natural process where silica-rich solutions seep into gaps or porous parts of a host material, like buried organic remains or rocks. Over time, the silica deposits fill these spaces and harden into opal, a mineraloid known for its vibrant play-of-color. This process often occurs in volcanic or sedimentary environments and can take millions of years. The resulting opal can preserve the original shape or structure of the material it replaced, creating gemstones or mineral specimens that exhibit striking iridescence due to their unique internal structure.