Deep Ruby

A deep ruby is a rare gemstone capable of conducting extraordinary amounts of magic. They are able to replicate the effects of a ley line in microcosm, even when miles away from the nearest ley line.

Properties

Material Characteristics

In their raw, uncut form, deep rubies are sometimes called "bloodstones." They resemble roughly fist-sized, crimson-red rocks that are too hard to be cut by ordinary steel.
When cut, deep rubies are brilliant crimson or red-violet gemstones that sparkle even under the dimmest light.

Geology & Geography

Deep rubies are only found in the mountains of central Cypruvalu.

History & Usage

History

Deep rubies were first discovered by miners from Cape Hildegard in the early days of its settlement, in the Y400s ITG. They quickly became an important resource in the city's magical growth and development.
Deep ruby mining was a critical Cypruvian industry through the Y700s CPX. In the mid-700s, stories began circulating of deep ruby miners turning to stone, growing tentacles, and suffering from other horrifying transmutative diseases. The last of the deep ruby mines were permanently closed by the Y770s.
After the Order of the Banished Scholars were banished from Cape Hildegard, they reopened the abandoned mines and attempted to refurbish them into an underground city, known as the Cave of the Banished Scholars. They quickly rediscovered the aberrations that had plagued the previous inhabitants. However, rather than recoiling in horror, they worshiped these eldritch creatures, using deep ruby reserves further in the mines to power experiments in strengthening them and opening yet more portals between realms.
Meanwhile, in Cape Hildegard, the movement and trade of deep rubies became heavily regulated. Cut rubies eventually soared in price up to 100,000 gp for large, high-quality specimens.
Now that the Heroes of Cape Hildegard have closed the portals and defeated the monsters in the Cave of the Banished Scholars, discussions in the Council of Deans have re-opened as to whether or not to restart deep ruby mining operations.

Everyday use

Deep rubies power many of the most important structures in Cape Hildegard, from the hearts of the steam golems that work in and defend the harbors to the arcane lens at the center of Hildegard University. Many high-profile magical items have a deep ruby at their hearts, most famously the Scholar's Sword wielded by Julien Hawthorne and Blanche de la Force.

Refinement

Deep rubies must be cut with specialized tools (usually diamond-tipped drills and Cypruvian steel saws) before their full magical potential can be realized. The shape and style of the cut tends to affect the magic best channeled through the deep ruby: for instance, a brilliant-cut deep ruby tends to enhance the clarity and scope of divination magic, while triangular facets are most effective in conducting destructive and abjurative energy.

Reusability & Recycling

Deep rubies hold their magic remarkably well. Heirloom deep rubies are often recut and repurposed for other magical projects. However, the amount of magic a deep ruby can hold is proportional to its size, and particularly fragmented deep rubies (less than half a carat) are unable to conduct more than the most basic magical energy.

Type

Ore/Mineral

Rarity

extremely rare

Color

blood-red to violet-red