Magic Catalysts

You can compare each catalyst from a tactical angle, and ask which stores the most magic per gram. Or you can acknowledge that you rarely need that much magic without notice and get whichever gemstone looks the nicest.

— Mage to a colleague

Magic Catalysts are devices that can be used to store magic and spells for later use. They come in various forms and designs, with no standardised method of manufacture.

Description

No two catalysts are identical, but they share many commonalities. Each catalyst contains a precious gemstone at its core, stones such as topazes, rubies, and opals. The shape of the gemstone has some bearing on the magical storage, with smooth or circular ones holding more. While the gem is the only part required for the catalyst, many included cast and carved metals to securely hold it, and smaller gems intended to increase the potency of the main crystal.
Different gems have different properties when it comes to being a catalyst, with some storing more magic and some storing for longer. Opals are among the most 'efficient' catalyst gemstones, and are highly prized. When it comes to the metal that surrounds the gem, iron is never used due to its neutralising properties. Planar Iron, meanwhile, is believed to bolster magic potency, while gold and silver are neutral.

History

Magic catalysts were developed independently on each of the two continents of Tiyu Amara, Abravost and Thurásin. In the former, gems began to be researched for their magical properties by The Vosti Empire approximately 600 years ago, with the first catalysts produced finding their way into the hands of the Vosti elite. In Thurásin, such research took place during the Era of Renewal 700 years ago, spread out across the continent but primarily in Ozäxa-Lavüdh.
Initial catalysts were very rudimentary, taking existing gems and carving a hole into them, with the hole then having magic directed into it. This compromised the ability of the catalyst to store magic, and later developments enabled them to take in magic without harming their surface.

Use

Catalysts are often incorporated into outfits to make them easier to use, most commonly as a necklace or ring. Nobles and public figures may sew the magic gems directly into their clothes to conceal their power, though others make a big show of having catalysts in order to ward off attackers.
Why people use catalysts vary. Some individuals do not have enough magic in their own souls to cast powerful spells and may need external aid. Others simply find the presence of catalysts calming, as they can be drained first in a dangerous situation and leave the caster still feeling refreshed due to not having used their own manner. A third group require catalysts to cast any magic at all, due to a condition called Uhoma.

Ruby Jewelry by Bruceandyqq

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