Iria Crystals

Iria crystals are a form of magic-infused quartz. The richest deposits are found on the islands of Athvrea but deposits are found around the globe. Iria crystals are integral to the construction and powering of Magitek. The crystals come in a range of varieties, each having particular end uses. Synthetic iria crystals have been produced but are unstable and not feasible for economic or military use. As such, the crystals remain prohibitively expense. A middle class family may have one or two in a home and most purchasers are businesses, municipalities, and the elite.

The exact process where in the quartz is infused is poorly understood. The prevailing theory is that Magical Currents that circulate on a global scale flow through quartz that is the right crystallinity to accept it. This is supported by the existence of sandstones with iria crystal grains in an inert matrix as well as pockets of iria crystal sand. However, these magical currents have not been detected and there is no other proof of their existence.

One critical variety of iria crystal stores thermal energy and then releases it at a rate that can be modulated through magical attunement. The crystals may be charged in anything from a hearth to a forge. These crystals allow for the use of airships by providing a flameless and ashless heat source. They are used in medicine to relax muscle injuries as well as navigating winter environments. The crystals are used for home heating, cooking, and public bathhouses. Military uses include heated shot and sieging via melting otherwise nonflammable materials. This variety is also considered of spiritual importance by the Clergy of Cyridia with less savory rumors suggesting that the Golden Hand uses them as torture devices.

Other kinds of iria crystals store light. These are used for lighting settings were an open flame may be dangerous such as coal mines, alchemical labs, or a child's bedroom. In larger cities, streets are often lined with this type. These crystals are charged by sunlight during the day and release light at night, extending the window for commercial and social activity.

Most iria crystals store forces that are poorly understood. These come in five varieties. One releases something appears to do nothing. Another releases a kind of energy that will melt foods and boil water in the immediate vicinity while leaving other substances unaffected. The third causes tanning of the skin and retina damage. The fourth and and fifth kind of crystals cause severe health issues. The fourth kind appears to penetrate soft materials and be stopped by denser ones. The fifth and most disturbing kind often causes sickness that are lethal within days, manifesting burns, diarrhea, and mental abnormalities among other symptoms. This fifth kind's force can only be contained with thick metal, especially lead, thick stone, or several feet of dirt.

Members of the Golden Hand are said to be working on experiments related to iria crystals.