Orichalcum
A unique crystalline mineral made of solid psychic energy. It is used in the construction of Psi-Tech and in the practice of psychic powers.
Properties
Material Characteristics
Orichalcum resembles a translucent aquamarine coloured crystal quartz that emits a soft glow. The glow produced by the crystal intensifies when exposed to metaphysical energy.
Geology & Geography
Orichalcum is found underground as a mineral ore containing pure orichalcum crystals. These deposits are found at loci of metaphysical energy.
Origin & Source
It is unclear how orichalcum is formed as it defies conventional mineral science. Various theories have surfaced over the years to explain the origin of orichalcum with the most widely accepted being that the metaphysical energy somehow focuses and spontaneously forms the crystals. This theory is supported by the reports of "new" veins of orichalcum being found in mine thought to be tapped out years previously.
History & Usage
Discovery
Orichalcum was discovered back before the Age of Strife, sometime during the Terran Mandate. Due to the authoritarian nature of the human central government at the time, a specific date of discovery was suppressed and eventually lost.
Everyday use
Orichalcum is used by psychics as a metaphysical focus or booster. It is also used in various psi tech machines
Hazards
Orichalcum crystals are highly explosive if subjected to too much metaphysical energy too suddenly. Various crackpots have made unfounded accusations of "we don't know the long-term effects of exposure" or "They radiate toxic energy that interferes with our bio-harmonic energy".
Environmental Impact
None observable, mining method can be damaging
Distribution
Trade & Market
Depends on the legal status of the crystal in a sector. Can be freely traded to restricted to outright banned.
Storage
Large amounts of orichalcum being moved through metaphysical space should be contained within psychic-shielded containers to prevent accidental exposure to metaphysical energy.
Law & Regulation
Depends on the legal status of the crystal in a sector. Can be legal for civilian use; restricted to government, military or industrial use; or seized and destroyed as a dangerous substance.
N/AOr
Type
Ore/Mineral
Rarity
Rare
Odor
Orichalcum mines have been noted to smell vaguely of ozone but the crystals have no noticeable odour
Color
Transluscent Aquamarine
Boiling / Condensation Point
Unknown, Appears to not be connected to temperature
Melting / Freezing Point
Unknown, Appears to not be connected to temperature
Density
Strangely variable
Common State
Solid, Crystalline
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