Copper

Copper in Trevisa

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Overview:
Copper is one of the most foundational materials in Trevisa, playing a pivotal role in crafting, trade, and magic. Its versatility and availability have made it a staple material for both mundane and advanced uses. From ancient tools to enchanted circuits, copper has cemented its place in the economy and culture of Trevisa.

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Uses

1. Alloy Production:
2. Bronze: Created by alloying copper with tin, used for weapons, tools, armor, and even decorative artifacts.
3. Brass: Formed by alloying copper with zinc, valued for its golden appearance and its use in instruments, fittings, and ornamental designs.
4. Currency:
5. Copper coins are ubiquitous, forming the backbone of the economy for common trades and low-value transactions.
6. Crafting and Tools:
7. Utilized in cookware (pots, kettles) due to its excellent thermal conductivity.
8. Decoratively employed in jewelry, ceremonial objects, and artistic inlays.
9. Architecture and Infrastructure:
10. Copper Roofing: Corrosion-resistant roofs in areas with heavy rainfall.
11. Plumbing: Pipes in both rural and urban areas, especially where clean water is essential.
12. Magical Applications:
13. Copper’s conductive properties make it a key material in magical circuits and enchanted devices.
14. Alchemists and enchanters often use copper as a stabilizing agent in spells tied to lightning, energy, or earth.

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Properties

• Malleability and Ductility: Copper can be easily shaped, stretched, or hammered, making it suitable for intricate work.
• Thermal and Electrical Conductivity: Highly conductive, ideal for magical and technological systems.
• Corrosion Resistance: Naturally develops a green patina (verdigris) over time, which protects it from further corrosion.
• Distinct Appearance: Its reddish-orange color makes it visually appealing for decorative uses.

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Rarity in Trevisa

• Geography:
• Copper is abundant in Trevisa, with the largest deposits found in the Copper Hills of Dharanth, a mountainous mining region in Ko-Aton.
• Smaller deposits are scattered across volcanic regions and riverbeds, often found alongside turquoise or malachite.
• Availability:
• Common: Copper is widely available and mined extensively, forming the backbone of many regional economies.
• High-purity deposits are slightly rarer and command higher prices.

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Price (On Average in Trevisa)

• Raw Copper Ore:
• ~5-8 copper pieces per pound near mining regions.
• ~12-15 copper pieces per pound in areas dependent on imports.
• Refined Copper:
• ~1-2 silver pieces per pound.
• Crafted items like jewelry or high-quality tools may cost significantly more based on artistry.

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Cultural and Economic Context

1. Everyday Life:
2. Copper tools and cookware are staples in rural and urban households alike.
3. Small copper coins dominate local markets, being the currency of choice for day-to-day transactions.
4. Artistic and Ceremonial Uses:
5. Copper is often used in religious symbols and ceremonial artifacts due to its rich color and associations with warmth and vitality.
6. Fantasy Integration:
7. Dwarves and gnomes use copper extensively in crafting magical devices and conduits for arcane energy.
8. Elemental mages often rely on copper for its affinity with lightning and earth spells, weaving it into their tools and focuses.
9. Folk Beliefs:
10. Some cultures believe copper promotes health and repels certain magical curses. This belief has led to its use in charms, amulets, and even protective barriers.

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Key Applications of Copper Alloys

1. Bronze (Copper + Tin):
2. Tools, weapons, armor, and statues.
3. Historically significant as a durable material, making it ideal for both combat and artistry.
4. Brass (Copper + Zinc):
5. Musical instruments, fittings, and decorative items due to its vibrant, golden hue.
6. Preferred for non-magical ornamental work in urban centers.

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Symbolism of Copper in Trevisa

• Color: Copper’s reddish-orange tone symbolizes warmth, energy, and vitality.
• Cultural Associations: Often linked to health, prosperity, and adaptability.
• Status: While considered “common,” copper is integral to all levels of society, making it both humble and indispensable.