Granem
Once called Direllium Metal for the ore from which it was refined, Granem Metal is now most commonly found in present day in the form of weaponry and armor, as well as the odd plate, goblet or candlestick. Prized for its superior durability, lighter weight, and sharper edge than steel. Enormous boulders of Granem have been found in and around the Bjargan Mountains. Once commercially available to many empires and cities throughout Renúdetla during the 2nd age, the art of its creation has been long lost to the sands of time.
Properties
Material Characteristics
Possesses all the black of obsidian, but none of the reflective elements. The intensity of the color obscures fine details unless revealed by light. Often, many of the more ornate pieces of Granem will require shimmering, flickering, or specifically firelight to fully appreciate the intricacies of the craftsmanship.
Physical & Chemical Properties
Cold and smooth to the touch. The metal can withstand incredible variations in temperature and will not rust with exposure. The blades fine cut is only comparable to that of an obsidian knife, and will not easily lose its edge. The metal is unnaturally lightweight with respect to the incredible durability.
Geology & Geography
Naturally found deep within the Bjargan Mountains.
Origin & Source
Direllium Ore
Life & Expiration
None known.
History & Usage
History
According to the archaeological record, Granem Metal exploded in popularity sometime during the early to middle centuries of the second age. With respect to some of the contemporary texts that have been founded to be dated to the same era, it can safely be assumed that the Granem was solely responsible for the production and distribution of the metal that eventually took on their name. Indeed, the economic foundation upon which the great, Granem city-state Ünterhall established itself. Records indicate that the metal took on a considerable cultural significance to the Granem people. Many ceremonial chalices, intricately worked metal scabbards and swards, elaborately decorated suits of armor have all been discovered. Many of the weapons that have been found since are in use today across Renúdetla. The Granem Metal trade continued to bolster Ünterhall economy right up until their disastrous end at the end of the second age. Since the destruction of Ünterhall and diaspora and eventual extinction of the Granem species, the craft of creating the precious metal has been lost. Today, many of the more mundane tools and utensils are used primarily as status symbols among social elites and collectors of antiquity of several human empires, including the The Ornithian Empire and Artwin Empires. However, tools of war made of Granem metal are some of the most highly valued items among soldiers, adventures, and generals alike.
Discovery
Discovered by the Granem species.
Cultural Significance and Usage
Once the pride of the Gramen species from the middle to end of the second age. Many surviving records have suggested that although the metal was widely produced, it was also used in exclusion in Gramen rituals and ceremonies, for instance the Black Horn of Bjarg that was used during the most sacred festival of the Gramen year celebrating the Bjargan mountains. The metal was also used to demonstrate the might of the Ünterhall city-state. The inner royal guard displayed armor that is more of a work of art than a tool for protection. The city guards were equipped with similar, albeit less flashy armor and weaponry.
Refinement
The entire process of refinement has been long lost with the Gramen people. However it is known that the metal is produced from Direllium ore.
Distribution
Trade & Market
Traders and tinkers will often have the occasional oddity that has been made with Granem. However most weapons and what few armor that remains is sold at exclusive auctions and between private owners.
Storage
Will not rust, though a blade will lose its edge after improper care.
Type
Metal
Value
Weapons made of Granem are highly valued among many sapients
Rarity
Very rare
Color
Black
Melting / Freezing Point
Melts at Dragonbreath
Density
High
Common State
Solid
Related Locations
Related Species
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