Lore:Crystals
Aeonstone[edit]
Aeonstone is a green stone that can be found throughout mines in southern Elsweyr. Though it has no intrinsic power, aeonstone has the unique capability to store and amplify magical energy. In this state, the aeonstone becomes empowered and glows with a bright green hue. This unique property was discovered by the New Moon Cult, who would engage in ritualistic sacrifice to empower themselves and their masters. Many cultists used aeonstone in their armor. These stones would then allow cultists to greatly empower their own sorcery with this magic, even allowing necromancers to resurrect and enslave Dragons. Absorbing stored energy from aeonstone can be extremely dangerous for mortals, and improper usage can wreak havoc on the mage's body.
Aetherquartz[edit]
Aetherquartz is a "milky"[1] crystal that is similar to quartz in appearance. It is used predominantly by the Altmer, including in their jewelry, sacred objects,[2] and calians.[3]
Agate[edit]
Agate is a blue gemstone known to be used to make marbles for the Dark Elf children's game, "Keepers".[4] It is also used for decoration purposes.
Almandine[edit]
Almandine is a red type of garnet often used for enchanting armor and weapons.[5]
Amber[edit]
Amber is a colorful resin formed from hardened sap. It may be used in alchemy to produce a resist fire effect. The material is of limited use to the people of Tamriel, but in the Shivering Isles, amber smithing is an ancient art. The master smith of Bliss has the ability to make amber weapons and armor. Before the master dies, he will hide matrices throughout the realm and train an apprentice to continue the tradition.
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Amethyst[edit]
Amethysts are commonly used for decoration and aesthetic purposes, with them often being made into jewelry and are a common adornment in tombs and temples.[6]
Amethysts are found in geodes, and these geodes are always found in proximity to volcanic rock.[7]
In Hammerfell, many of the old tubes of volcanic rock have been covered over by layers of later rock, or weathered away and scattered as sand and gravel, but in the Hollow Wastes the layers over the ancient lava have been scoured away by the relentless winds, and the flowstone is exposed as nowhere else in Hammerfell. Some notable areas of amethyst mining in Hammerfell are Dak'fron, Kulati, and Zareth M'Kai.[7]
In Black Marsh, tradition dictates that Argonians present a potential mate a unique wedding ring to represent their future bond. Every Argonian wedding proposal band is supposed to have three flawless amethysts as part of their design. Two of the gems, the ones on the outside, represent the couple to be married, one for the husband, one for the wife. The amethyst in the center represents the Hist.[8]
Gallery[edit]
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(Skyrim)
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Snow Elf paragon made of amethyst
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(ESO)
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Amethyst beacon
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(Blades)
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Silver amethyst ring
Aquamarine[edit]
Aquamarine is a rare, blue gemstone.
Arentine[edit]
Aretine is a dense, heavy gem that has a unique property of absorbing all light around it. It is often used in high-end weapons and armor tempering.[9]
Atronite[edit]
Atronite is a mysterious stone from Oblivion, with it often being left behind on Nirn when an Atronach is defeated or dispelled. It is used in the tempering of high-end weapons and armor.
Gallery[edit]
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Ebony necklace with atronite
Aurbic Amber[edit]
Aurbic Amber are green gemstones that are often used to enhance enchantments on Jewelry.
Azurite[edit]
Azurite is a rare, blue mineral found within the northern hills of Bangkorai.[10] It has connections with Azura; the Spirit Wardens are known to carve decorative items from it[11] and use it to cleanse her shrines.[12]
Bloodstone[edit]
Bloodstones are red gemstones that are often used to enhance enchantments on armor. These gems are also used by vampire hunters as a lure, when placed in water, the gem converts the water into blood, which can compel a fierce hunger even in the most sated vampire.[13]
Carnelian[edit]
Carnelian is a purple gemstone often used to enhance enchantments on armor. The Dwemer used carnelian for certain theodolites — automated measuring devices designed to explore and survey subterranean areas.
Gallery[edit]
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Carnelian theodolite
Citrine[edit]
Citrine is a yellow variety of quartz that is often used to enhance weapons.
Chalcedony[edit]
Chalcedony is a translucent form of quartz with a waxy luster, which can be found in a variety of colors from pale blue to deep brown. The unpolished stone has several uses in alchemy.
Chysolite[edit]
Dawn-Prism[edit]
Diamond[edit]
Diamonds are rare transparent gems often judged primarily on their clarity and brilliance, and the difficulty involved in cutting one raises their value even more.
Diamonds are a keystone of Imperial culture, with Chim-el Adabal, the Red Diamond of the Amulet of Kings being featured in iconography across the Empire.
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Gallery[edit]
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Diamond (Daggerfall)
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Diamonds (Morrowind)
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Diamonds in various lapidary stages (Oblivion)
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Snow Elf paragon made of diamond
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Diamond (Blades)
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Diamond of the Reman Empire
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Diamonds of the Septim Empire
Ebony[edit]
Ebony, a rare volcanic glass, is one of the most precious substances in Tamriel, mainly found in Vvardenfell, buried in the lava flows from Red Mountain. Veins can also be found in Solstheim, and occasionally on mainland Skyrim, Cyrodiil and High Rock. Raw ebony itself is an extremely hard, durable, black glass-like substance. It is also known as Godsblood, as it is said to be the crystallized blood of a god or gods, Lorkhan in particular. The acquisition and use of ebony can lead mortals to transcend their limitations.
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Emerald[edit]
Emeralds are green gems.
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Gallery[edit]
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Emerald (Daggerfall)
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Emeralds in various lapidary stages (Oblivion)
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Emerald (Blades)
Epidote[edit]
Epidote is a lustrous yellow-green crystalline mineral.
Faerite[edit]
Faerite is a mysterious stone that is noted to appear in locations where great feats of magic once occurred, considering its name, it is likely connected to the Faerie. It is often used for advanced tempering.
Firebreath Opal[edit]
Firebreath Opals look burning white-hot but are actually cool to the touch. They are used in the advanced tempering of weapons and armor.
Fire Opal[edit]
Fire Opals are commonly used for enhancing weapon enchantments.
During the invasion of the Battlespire, a Flame Atronach was known to have given the apprentice a 'Helm of the Fire Opal', which would diminish the effects of Frost Atronachs.[14]
Flint[edit]
Flint is a type of quartz often mined and used by Argonians.[15]
Argonian smiths use a technique called "slug shaping" which uses a specific type of slug called the Jassa Red, which when threatened, squirts out an acidic mucous that can be used for smithing. Argonians place the slugs onto the wood or stone and repeatedly flash a piece of flint directly behind them. Adjusting the position of the flint pushes the slugs in different directions. As the slugs move across the wood or stone, they leave behind a thin layer of acidic slime, creating long, smooth channels in the material.[16]
Flint can also be used to start fires.[17]
Garnet[edit]
Garnets (?)
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Green garnet geode
Glass[edit]
Common glass (not to be confused with malachite, often called "glass") is a transparent material often used in kitchenware, alchemy containers, and in construction. When stained, glass workers may use it to create beautiful glass mosaics, often used in temples. Vampires of the Reach are known to have constructed red stained glass windows that could counteract the dangers of sunlight.[18]
Jade[edit]
Jade is a green gemstone often used for making jewelry and enhancing enchantments on armor. Jades and jade dust can be used in alchemy.
The legendary Necromancer's Amulet's skull is made of jade.[19]
Jade is used for a variety of purposes by the Bosmer such as corkscrew handles and statuettes shaped as the Green Lady.[20][21] Jade inkwells are used to contain the green iridescent ink used for writing official decrees from the Silvenar.[22]
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
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(Daggerfall)
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Jade circlet with emeralds
Jasper[edit]
Jasper is the ore from which chalcedony is derived. It is a smooth opaque mineral and brown, red, or green iron deposits are often found within jasper. The unpolished stone has several uses in alchemy.
Argonians are known to use polished blue jaspers in their jewelry. Bog-blue jaspers are a similar kind of jasper, said in Kothringi folklore to come from the gizzards of geels-ha butcher eels.[23]
Lapis Lazuli[edit]
Lapis Lazuli (or just called Lapis)[24] is a blue gemstone that can be commonly found in the Summerset Isles. One of the most profitable mining prospects in Auridon is the lapis lazuli mine outside of Vulkhel Guard called Del's Claim. An old man named Del found the large deposit and staggered back into town to tell everyone, but no one believed him. But once people discovered it themselves, it became a very lucrative operation.[25] The Psijic Order are known to use studded lapis lazuli in addendum with turquoise in their belts. They also wear a scrying eye medallion with a large piece of glowing lapis as the eyeball.[24]
Lazurite[edit]
Lazurite is a sparkling blue ore, usually found close to sulphur deposits, usually embedded within limestone. The unpolished stone has several uses in alchemy, and crushed lazurite is used by artists in their paintings. When used in alchemy it has been proven to:
- Fortify vitality and constitution.
- Bolster armor and the damage inflicted while combat rages.
- Conjure a mystical bolt to penetrate the enemy, and a magical immunity about the user's being.
- Augments abilities to move with the shadows, and senses to spot those silently creeping.
Malachite[edit]
Malachite, commonly known as glass (and not to be confused with common glass), is a rare, volcanic, milky translucent green crystal, used in creating strong but lightweight metallic Altmer armor and weapons. It is similar to ebony, but is less durable and more lightweight. It bears no relation to the common, brittle glass used in windows and ornaments, as it is far stronger and has a much higher melting point. It is most commonly found in Morrowind on the volcanic island of Vvardenfell, but ore veins can also be found all across Tamriel.
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Obsidian[edit]
Obsidian is black, volcanic glass created when lava cools rapidly. It is used most commonly by the Dunmer, often incorporating it in their crafting style.[26] Drenlyns are specialized nix-ox trainers that use obsidian drills to bore into the creatures' back and expose a series of nerves they call the "drive center."[27] The giant arches that mark the Shrine of Saint Veloth are made from obsidian.[28] Obsidian is a common material used by the Bosmer to make their spears and axes.[29] The Obsidian Husk is an artifact of mysterious origin that is also associated with the Webspinner, Mephala. It has been passed down through the Cult of the Spider for generations.[30]
Onyx[edit]
Onyx is a black gemstone that is mainly used for jewelry and decoration.[31] Onyx is known to be found in Cyrodiil.[32]
Onyx is sometimes carried by priests of Sithis for various meditation practices.[33] It is also used for the Orcish version of chess which contains 32 pawns, 16 being onyx and 16 being moonstone.
Opal[edit]
Opal is a gemstone usually only found in Elsweyr and in Yokuda, it is often carved into objects such as snuff boxes and totems.[34] Opal spheres are sometimes used in Magrus worship.[35]
The Yokudans were known to use opals to create elaborate opal headdresses.[36]
Pearl[edit]
Pearls are organic balls used as gemstones. Their origin as the product of a living organism makes them unique in the realm of enchantment.[37] Pearls have augmentative powers that can assist both mages and athletes. Freshwater pearls from the Nilumin River were called "Tears of the Ehlnofey" by Aldmer divers. In ancient times, alchemists ground them into powder to make remedies, and some Aldhessia healers wore them as talismans.[38]
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Peridot[edit]
Peridot is a green gemstone.
Porphyry[edit]
Porphyry is a deep red or purple stone with feldspar crystals, found in igneous rock. The unpolished stone has several uses in alchemy.
Purgeblood Salts[edit]
Purgeblood Salts are a rare ingredient that can be mined from Purgeblood Crystal Formations that are found exclusively in Deepscorn Hollow. It has several alchemical properties, most notably the ability to restore and fortify magicka.
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Pyrine[edit]
Pryine is a gold-colored gem of great power with relatively unknown origins. It is used for the tempering of armor and weapons.
Quartz[edit]
Quartz is prized by the Khajiit,[39] who carved trinkets such as ritual idols from the crystal.[40] Those who worship Trinimac use quartz crystals in art and armor to represent the clarity of his vision.[41] Rose quartz is a variety of quartz that has a pink hue.[42]
Ruby[edit]
Rubies are a red gem. High-ranking members of the Gray Host are known to wear earrings featuring rubies soaked in vampire ichor.[43]
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Gallery[edit]
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Ruby (Daggerfall)
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Rubies (Morrowind)
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Snow Elf paragon made of ruby
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Ruby geode
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Copper circlet with rubies
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Ruby (Blades)
Salt[edit]
Sapphire[edit]
Sapphires are often used for jewelry and for tempering armor. They are also used in alchemy with them commonly having the trait of spell reflection. Star Sapphires are one type of known sapphire.
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Gallery[edit]
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(Daggerfall)
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Sapphires in various lapidary stages (Oblivion)
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Flawless sapphire (Skyrim)
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Paragon made of sapphire
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Dragon Cult claw made with sapphire
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Sapphire (ESO)
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Sapphire (Blades)
Sardonyx[edit]
Scythe Crystal[edit]
Slaughterstone[edit]
Soul Gems[edit]
Soul Gems are morpholiths used in the process of binding souls using magic. These gems are used to enchant and charge magical items, animate undead or artificial constructs, or cast powerful destructive spells. For this purpose, creatures' souls are usually trapped at the moment of death. Soul gems can be mined from geode veins, one of the locations to contain geode veins is Blackreach. The origin of Soul Gems can be traced back to Harvester of Souls himself, Molag Bal, who used a portion of his power in their creation. Indeed, Black Soul Gems can now be found within the depths of his realm of Coldharbour.
Stalhrim[edit]
Stalhrim is a rare form of enchanted ice found only on the island on Solstheim. Throughout history it has served various uses. Originally it was used in the burial rituals of ancient Nords. The deceased would be encased in the material as a form of protection, a privilege that was typically reserved for Nordic individuals. It has also served as a crafting material and, with the proper tools and techniques, can be used to create weapons, armor, clothing, and even jewelry.
Stalhrim armor (sometimes called ice armor) can be light, medium, or heavy in weight. It is very protective, and is often made with steel or quicksilver. Due to its innate properties, frost enchantments placed on items made of stalhrim are more potent. In its raw form, it can be used as an alchemical ingredient that induces paralysis and inflicts frost damage.
Stalhrim is often described as being hard as iron and impossible to break by conventional means. The only known way to mine it is with an ancient Nordic pickaxe, made from superior craftsmanship. It has been described as a rigid, blue-white crystalline metal, faceted yet smooth, and unnaturally cold to touch. Working with stalhrim is much like ebony smithing, and can only be performed by a skilled blacksmith.
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Star Teeth[edit]
Star Teeth is a term usually used to refer to a group of seven magical prismatic crystals taken from the skies by airships during the Merethic Era. The term is also used to refer to the material they are made from, which even in small shards is considered valuable. It has been used in things such as armor. The denizens of western Craglorn use star teeth decoratively to create extremely valuable studded clothing such as belts.
Toadstone[edit]
A semi-precious stone that was once thought to neutralize poison if placed in a drink.[44]
Topaz[edit]
Topazes are a yellow-colored gem that are often used in the making of jewelry, with them having little use in enchanting or alchemy. Topaz dust can be ingested to fortify one's personality but damages their agility and luck.
For alchemy information, see the Topaz Dust entry.
Gallery[edit]
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Topaz (Blades)
Turquoise[edit]
Turquoise is a blue/green gemstone often used on weaponry and for decorative purposes. It is known to be mined in Eastmarch[45]
Turquoise glass treated with glow-spells is sometimes passed off as Welkynd Stones by scam artists.[46]
For alchemy information, see the Alchemy lore entry.
Gallery[edit]
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(Daggerfall)
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Turquoise-studded pewter clasps
Void-Crystal[edit]
References[edit]
- ^ The Price of Praxis — Ceruval Rolumaril
- ^ Apraxic Decanter codex entries in ESO
- ^ Aetherquartz Prayer Beads first antiquity codex entry in ESO
- ^ Lizard-Eye Marbles in ESO
- ^ Almandine in ESO
- ^ Amethyst in Blades
- ^ a b Amethyst Mining in the Alik'r — Ezdwelen al-Rihad
- ^ Talen-Jei's dialogue in Skyrim
- ^ Arentine description in Blades
- ^ Abbot Durak's dialogue during Azura's Aid in ESO
- ^ Azurite Figurine item desription
- ^ Azura's Aid quest in ESO
- ^ Sabonn's dialogue in ESO
- ^ Fire Daedra's dialogue in Battlespire
- ^ Emberflint Mine in ESO
- ^ From Wrothgar to Lilmoth: A Smith's Tale, Vol 3 — Garnozag, Master Smith
- ^ The Story of Aevar Stone-Singer
- ^ Vampiric Stained Glass in ESO
- ^ Player dialogue with Wuunferth the Unliving in Skyrim
- ^ Green Lady Fertility Fetish in ESO
- ^ Green Lady Corkscrew in ESO
- ^ Green "Official Decree" Inkwell in ESO
- ^ Bog-Blue Jasper Fetish antiquity codex entry in ESO: Blackwood
- ^ a b Crafting Motif 61: Psijic Style — Loremaster Celarus
- ^ Del's Claim loading screen text in ESO
- ^ Obsidian style material in ESO
- ^ Dark Elves, Dark Hearts — Bakozog gro-Shakh
- ^ The Improved Emperor's Guide to Tamriel: Stonefalls and Deshaan — Flaccus Terentius, 2E 581
- ^ Common Arms of Valenwood — Mistral Aurelian Teriscor
- ^ The Obsidian Husk
- ^ Onyx Serpent Carving
- ^ Onyx Caverns in Oblivion
- ^ Shards of Nothing in ESO
- ^ Carved Whale Totem in ESO
- ^ Cat's Eye Prism in ESO
- ^ Jewels of Yokuda — Master-Jeweler Donielle Geonette
- ^ The Great Eltheric Pearl's third antiquity codex entry in ESO
- ^ The Nilumin River Pearls's second and third antiquity codex entries in ESO
- ^ Merryvale Sugar Farm Caves loading screen text in ESO: Elsweyr
- ^ Rollin's dialogue regarding the quartz idol during A Night to Forget in ESO
- ^ Crafting Motif 22: Trinimac Belts — the Venerable Uugus, Priest of Trinimac
- ^ Statuette of Trinimac item description in ESO
- ^ Greymoor Ruby Earrings description in ESO: Greymoor
- ^ Antique Anti-Venom Toadstone item description in ESO
- ^ The Bastard's Tomb's loading screen in ESO
- ^ Motalion Necropolis Report — Maffud
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