Platinum

Appearance & Rarity

Paler than silver, it is referred to in some languages as the 'white metal'. As a result, it is regarded as the counterpart to Black Iron, which is the 'black metal'. Platinum's rarity is only surpassed by Black Iron's. It is a dense, malleable metal like gold and silver.

Mining

The largest platinum reserves were found in Hantau. Platinum became their most valuable export and as a result gave the country its moniker 'The Realm of Coin'. The mines have sustained Hantau for the thousands of years since its founding. Platinum has become synonymous with the region and is woven into their culture. In recent years, however, there has been rumour of these reserves running out. It was this rumour and subsequent panic that led to the uprising and eventual appointment of Chen Lian as their Ministar Prima. She has gone about the task of keeping Hantau sustainable should the mines ever fully run dry. Culturally, what happens to Hantau if it no longer has platinum is challenge they may well have to face in the near future.
Smaller reserves have been found in other locations, all reserves found in Aldenia have long since been used up, though there are still active mines across Thrabad. However, these mines are not predominantly for platinum reserves, though new seams to get discovered on an almost regular basis. It was discovered early in Aldenia, alongside Black Iron, gold and silver. However, like all discoveries that predate the beginning of the Age of Discovery, the precise year when it was first found is unknown.

Usage

Platinum, like all precious metals is smelted into jewellery, ornaments and coin. One platinum is worth ten times as much as one gold coin. Whilst platinum is a status symbol, in Hantau, the vast majority of the upper echelon of their society all own some platinum item. As such, there, one does not stand out in such a manner as they would if they wore platinum in Aldenia, for instance.

Type

Metal

Common State

Solid