Crystal

Vyril is a realm of magic. In that, magic has superceded and in some places, overtaken, replaced, or supressed other forms of technology. In the more developed cities and nations, they've found ways of harnessing or storing magic so that it can be used as an energy source. The best way, they've found, is through the use of crystals.
Since magic is a force on Vyril, it can be manipulated, gathered, stored, and drawn. There are various crystals around Vyril that have been found to either be good batteries, or storage vessels, while others can amplify, dampen, or even generate magic on their own.

History & Usage

Discovery

Each race, nation, or culture has discovered a method of using the crystals that is usually unique to them. Some swear by certain colors, cuts, place of origin, while others put an emphasis on size. Whatever the decision, standards are then created in each highly developed nation and the demand for such crystals remains steady and high.

Clear Crystal by Jason D

black stones by Trevor Kolman

The crystals can be found all over Vyril and, in some instances, made. The are usually a rather common resource that is heavily controlled and fought over, with new discoveries and uses found frequently. Given the flexibility of Vyril's magic system, there is very little that can't be accomplished with enough magic and will to do it.

Distribution

Law & Regulation

For something so common, the crystals tend to be a heavily regulated and controlled material. For the countries that rely on them for their power, they seek to control where they come from, how they are processed, and how they might be dispersed. Thus, crystal mines are generally very important to choice nations and usually government, or nobility, owned.
Faulty, flawed crystals can be made by choice crafters and spellcasters. These can be dangerous and explosive, in varying degrees depending on the flaws, and as such are highly illegal in most countries.

Type

Ore/Mineral

Value

Based on size, color, and cut. Usually determined by the point of sale.

Rarity

Common

Color

All colors, usually dependent upon where they are harvested

cracked red quartz by Jason D