Almasium is a blue crystalline substance that is found deep within the world of Prismatia. In its basic form, it is used as a conductor of magical energy. However, when refined further, it is used in many different applications as a magical conductor, power storage, or even for aesthetics. Its distinct blue glow can be found in phosphorescent paints that light up the night while Almasium furnaces drive our industries and keep us warm. Almasium is the foundation of modern life in the world of Prismatia.
It originally was considered a “waste” product of deep iron and salt mining, but it came to the attention of Gestirn University that “blue glass” ore was sensitive to magic. This ore can be smelted in large furnaces until it can be poured into molds and cut to size. However, it is quite dangerous to work with, with explosions being common, and workers being exposed to all sorts of magical ailments. The molds are allowed to cool and crystallize in dark, isolated chambers dedicated to the process to prevent contamination.
Imani Almasi postulated that a large enough crystal of “blue glass”, cut and arranged in the right geometry, could internally reflect magic and become a stable power source for various machines. Her experiments resulted in several small explosions, but eventually she found the right geometry. A small amount of magic is used to start the furnace, which reflects and amplifies inside the Almasium crystal, glowing brighter than the sun. It burns with magical energy, throwing off blue sparks and flames, consuming the crystal in the process. The furnace can then be used to generate superheated steam to power all sorts of contraptions. Almasi was recognized for her genius, and her discovery became the basis for all Sapphi technology.
Almasine is a variant of Almasium that is distinctly red in its appearance and is highly unstable. The “red glass” ore is only found very deep along rich Almasium veins, and is quite rare. Although discovery of Almasine in a mine shaft usually results in the closure of the mine shaft, or even the entire mine. Attempted extraction of the material has caused large explosions that have obliterated entire mines, and in at least one case, destroyed an entire village. Almasine’s volatility has unfortunately been a major obstacle in studying its properties and potential applications. Attempts have been made to create Almasine-burning furnaces, but they are extremely sensitive and very difficult to operate and fuel. Scholars at Gestirn University have theorized that Almasine could be weaponized, which has resulted in strict political control of the substance.
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