Red Obsidian

Red Obsidian is an extremely rare and valuable material that appears as a deep red, yet transparent, glassy rock.  Aside from being very attractive, it is also a power source used to greatly enhance invocation magics.  They are highly sought after by many groups across the world, not just for their beauty, but also for the added power they provide to magical spells and items.

Properties

Material Characteristics

This material is see through and translucent, with a deep red color to it.  It is very smooth with extremely sharp edges.

Physical & Chemical Properties

When brought near a magical item or creature it begins to heat up, feeling warm to the touch, and glows with a low yet deep red color.

Geology & Geography

Red Obsidian is only found in the coldest of volcanic areas and areas where lava or magma is forced to cool extremely fast.

Origin & Source

Red Obsidian begins as regular black obsidian, but has been transformed through tremendous magic. Only the most powerful of magical heats, those usually generated by dragons, elementals, or demonic forces, can melt the black obsidian. After melting, the liquid obsidian must then be cooled extremely rapidly before any impurities or crystals can grow. If this is successful then the Red Obsidian is born.
Legends tell of a terrible battle between two great dragons, one red and one white. Who fought for control of a disputed gold and diamond rich, volcanic mountain in the cold north. They say that with all of the vicious fire and ice breath weapons, that enormous amounts of Red Obsidian flows were created as a result of their battle. If this mountain exists, and if one could find it, they would have access to riches beyond belief.

History & Usage

Discovery

No one knows who was the first to discover these rare objects, but it is written in ancient texts that the barbarian peoples of the far north mountains, used them to trade with many of the southern kingdoms to fuel their wars.

Everyday use

These rocks are very rarely seen or used in everyday life.  Only the most wealthy and well guarded would be able to use them in jewelry or a few might have enough to use for the enhancement of magical items and spells.  Only the most powerful of spell casters, or those wishing others to believe that they are powerful spell casters, wear and bring their Red Obsidian adorned magical items out into the public view.  Foolish are those who try to take them from their powerful owners.

Cultural Significance and Usage

Due to their small number and incredible power and value, many groups have gone to great lengths to acquire these materials.  From simple overpaying to outright theft and murder are not uncommon when the location of Red Obsidian is known.  It takes a strong hand to acquire it and an even stronger hand to keep it.

Refinement

These materials only require a small amount of refinement that usually consists of carefully separating them from the neighboring rock that they might be surrounded by or encased in, some light cleaning, and finally careful cutting, shaping, and polishing.

Manufacturing & Products

These materials are often used in magical wand and staff creation as well as being set into magical jewelry and other adornments.

Reusability & Recycling

This material can be reused until it cracks or is destroyed, both in terms of being set into jewelry and for use in magical castings and item creation.

Distribution

Trade & Market

While they are extremely difficult to find, it is sometimes possible for Red Obsidian to be available for purchase in high end gem and magic shops.

Storage

There are no special storage requirements for this material.

Law & Regulation

There are no specific regulations regarding this item.

Type

Stone

Value

Priceless

Rarity

Exceptionally rare.

Color

Deep translucent red.

Common State

It is commonly found in a solid, glassy state.