Crystal Tea

Crystal tea is a beloved, trendy beverage that has become a staple in numerous restaurants across southern Emberland. This distinctive tea originated in the picturesque region surrounding Crystal Lake, where the water is drawn from natural hot springs renowned for their mineral content.   What truly distinguishes crystal tea is its specially crafted tea bags, which are unlike traditional tea bags.  

Preparation

Before consuming crystal tea, it is essential to prepare it properly by placing a specialized tea bag into the hot water. This process not only allows the tea to steep, infusing the flavors and nutrients, but also serves a critical role in extracting excess minerals from the water, ensuring its safety for consumption. Although drinking crystal tea without this demineralizing step is technically possible, it is strongly discouraged due to the elevated mineral content.   There was a persistent myth suggesting that drinking under-steeped crystal tea could lead to mineral deposition within the body, but this claim lacked scientific support. In reality, the bottling process employed for the hot spring water includes filtration mechanisms designed to remove an adequate portion of the minerals suspended in the water, ensuring it is safe for consumption. Therefore, the risk of crystals forming within the body due to drinking under-steeped tea is unfounded.   However, it is crucial to note that while filtration reduces mineral concentration, some minerals may still remain at levels that could pose a health risk, particularly for individuals with specific sensitivities or dietary restrictions.

Manufacturing process

The water is sourced from the renowned hot springs and the Crystal Lake of the Glistening Meadows. It must be carefully bottled to prevent mineral deposition and crystallization within the filling and rinsing machinery and during transportation. This involves utilizing specialized techniques and materials that ensure the natural minerals remain suspended. To achieve this, the bottling process must be meticulously controlled, including temperature regulation and the use of high-grade, non-reactive containers that can withstand the mineral-rich composition of the water. Additionally, innovative filtration systems may be employed to maintain clarity and purity without obstructing the essential minerals that make the spring water so sought after.  

Recycling

The specialized teabag is ingeniously designed with a minuscule "seed" crystal embedded within its contents. This unique component facilitates the process of mineral deposition, effectively minimizing the concentration of suspended minerals in the water.   After the optimal steeping period, the teabag can be conveniently discarded. The embedded crystal is intentionally removed to mitigate the risk of excessive mineral accumulation in waste management systems. Remarkably versatile, these tiny crystals are not only recycled for various creative endeavors, such as crafts, but are also pulverized and repurposed in a range of manufacturing processes.   In some innovative applications, the crystals are even reprocessed back into water, enabling their reuse in the production of crystal tea. This system significantly decreases the demand for fresh water drawn from natural hot springs, promoting sustainability and environmental stewardship.
Item type
Consumable, Food / Drink
Current Location
Related Condition
Rarity
Common
Base Price
12 Glimmer
Raw materials & Components
Water from Crystal Lake
Related Myths


Cover image: by Nulcheck

Comments

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Jul 26, 2025 08:53

We could really use something like this. I think it's great that they considered sustainability when disposing of the crystals and are collecting them for use in art. Nice little article ;)

Summer Camp is back! Rippling waves lead you to my answers of this year's prompts.
Jul 26, 2025 15:52

<3 Thank you! I thought it would be a nice touch to add that.

Fly high, Guardian. o7
— Nulcheck ¦ Dragonguard Legend
Jul 28, 2025 21:34 by Dr Emily Vair-Turnbull

I really like the idea of the crystals being used in art or recycled to make more tea. I would like to try some!

Emy x
Explore Etrea | Summer Camp 2025
Jul 30, 2025 08:36

<3 Thank you! I'll have to try and think of what the arts would look like some time.

Fly high, Guardian. o7
— Nulcheck ¦ Dragonguard Legend
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