Dragonshard

Dragonshards are arcane crystals that naturally occur in Eberron. These dragonshards are charged with arcane power that can be harnessed by magic users or, as is more common in recent years, utilized in arcane technology. Dragonshards come in three varieties: Eberron, Siberys, and Khyber.

Overview

Dragonshards were originally first notated by human settlers being used by the native goblin population for various uses, most notably for arcane rites and rituals. They soon discovered the arcane properties and from the time of the first settlements, the dragonshard became a valuable trade good. Early mancers found that the shards could be used to enhance their natural abilities, which led to an attempt at monopolizing these shards for mancers uses, leading to a shortage of the shards. Eberron shards are found mostly underground and the rare above-ground deposits were running out.
It wasn't until the mining operations of the dwarves who settled in the Mror Holds found large deposits underground did the early dragonshard industry truly begin. Now, the dragonshard industry is one of the most prevalent and wealthy industries world-wide.

Types

There are three types of dragonshards that have been discovered throughout Khorvaire and each one is tied to one of the three creator dragons of Eberron: Eberron, Siberys, and Khyber.

Eberron Dragonshards

Eberron dragonshards are the most common dragonshard, found buried in the ground of Eberron. These shards are generally found in mining operations underground, but not so far as the Underdark. These shards are generally pink in hue, but range from red to orange as well. They are charged with natural arcane energy.

Siberys Dragonshards

Siberys dragonshards are the most rare and tend to be the most sought after for both traditional arcane abilities and for sophisticated technological purposes. These dragonshards make up the Ring of Siberys which encircles the planet of Eberron and are found when pieces of the ring fall to the surface. These shards have been found to be much more conductive than the other two, making them ideal for casting and technological feats. These shards are generally golden in color, but range from cream colored to almost a silver-white.

Khyber Dragonshards

Khyber dragonshards, while not the most rare, are the hardest to come by. These dragonshards grow naturally in the underdark (also known as Khyber in Eberron). Operations seeking to establish any kind of permanent mining operation in Khyber ends in disaster. Thus, trading for these shards is generally the only option and they fetch a hefty price on the black market. Khyber dragonshards have proven to have the most powerful arcane charge of the three types of dragonshard, and are generally used for arcane weapons purposes or for powerful magical spellcasting. Khyber shards tend to be purple in color, but can range from blue to black as well.

Properties

Physical & Chemical Properties

Natural arcane charge

History & Usage

Everyday use

Arcane constructs and technology, spellcasting empowerment

Type

Ore/Mineral