Aurachrome
Properties
Material Characteristics
Mirror-bright chrome with prismatic sheen that refracts light into vivid spectrums, scattering colors across any nearby surface. Highly scratch resistant and self-healing. Has a magical conductivity rating of 8 out of 10.
Geology & Geography
Aurachrome veins are only located at elevations higher than 15,000 ft where sunlight refracts through layers of aetherquartz. Its mirrored ore structure naturally bends light, creating radiant color shifts across its surface.
History & Usage
Discovery
Aurachrome's discovery dates back to the second iteration but its modern usage was first identified in the year 6411 when BRN defense contractors were researching deflector technology. When alloyed with other reflective materials Aurachrome forms a thin layer around the material, spreading magical reflective properties across the entire surface.
Everyday use
Aurachrome is commonly used as a plating agent for other metals, maximizing the metal's colorful reflective sheen and magic-reflective properties. It is widely used under layers of fabric in law enforcement reflective armor but also has use in scientific and military beam splitters and sighting mirrors.
Refinement
Aurachrome is almost exclusively electroplated though it can be melted with other metals if reflectiveness is not desired. Once electroplating is completed it is sanded and buffed to a high gloss where it retains its sheen forever.
Byproducts & Sideproducts
Excess material in electroplating chambers creates chrome salts, a toxic mineral that has no known uses and cannot be safely discarded. Instead, chrome salts are stored in massive underground bunkers awaiting scientific advances to provide use or proper disposal techniques.
Reusability & Recycling
Aurachrome plating is self-repairing thus no recycling is needed for the material.
Distribution
Trade & Market
Aurachrome is readily available in most nations where any precious metals can be purchased. Material is often sold with electroplating services included and merchants around the world offer electroplating for both residential and commercial purposes.
Type
Ore
Value
24 gold per gram
Rarity
Uncommon
Color
reflective chromatic
Melting / Freezing Point
3100° T
Density
525 lb/ft³