Electrum
Properties
Material Characteristics
Electrum is a metal that, in its purest form, appears similar to gold, only somewhat paler and more sparkly. It can be polished to an almost silvery sheen, and is a metal of which the Dwarves of Galoria are very fond.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Electrum is a very hard, light metal, and so is often used by Dwarves smiths to create blades. It is also highly resistant to deterioration, and does not rust or tarnish. However, it also has a very high melting point and is quite brittle, and only the Dwarves have mastered the art of smelting it and working it into usable items.
Compounds
Electrum, along with bronze, are the two main ingredients in the creation of Thargraz, the alloy from which Dwarven weapons are made. The electrum allows this alloy to create extremely sharp blades that are resistant to the elements and hold their edges very well, while the bronze lends its malleability to ensure the blades don't break.
Geology & Geography
This is an ore found most commonly in the Rivenspine mountain range which spans from the Valley of Tombs in Sapphria to Musca Bay in Chirnak. However, most mines for this metal exist in Galoria, as no other race has discovered how to forge it.
Origin & Source
Electrum is smelted from electrum ore, which can be found in the Rivenspine mountain chain.
History & Usage
Everyday use
Electrum is commonly used to create shimmery jewelry, as well as high-end kitchen knives.
Cultural Significance and Usage
Electrum is particularly significant to the Dwarves of Galoria, for whom it has long been used as a necessary part in the creation of their weapons and armor, as well as being intrinsic to their architectural decoration and the creation of fine jewelry.
Industrial Use
Electrum, along with bronze, is a main ingredient the alloy called Thargraz, which is what Dwarven weapons and armor is made of.
Refinement
Electrum ore must be smelted at extremely high temperatures in order to obtain a refined ingot. Only the Dwarves have developed means of producing such high temperatures.
Distribution
Trade & Market
Dwarven merchants are known to sell goods made with electrum. They are usually rather expensive, and are regarded as quite exotic by most cultures.
Type
Metal
Color
Pale gold
Melting / Freezing Point
Only specialized Dwarven forges are able to melt Electrum.
Related Species
Related Technologies
