Aetherquartz is the crystallised essence of Hysh, the Realm of Light, a glittering mineral prized above all else by the aelves who mine and refine it. Within each shard lies a fragment of pure aetheric energy, a reservoir of magic that can be drawn upon to sharpen the mind, quicken the reflexes, and steel the soul against the horrors of war.
The lumineth-realm-lords embed aetherquartz into their armour and weapons, drawing upon its stored power in moments of dire need. Yet each expenditure exacts a cost, for the crystal's magic dulls the emotions of the user, leaving them colder and more detached with every reserve spent.
Great conflicts have been fought over aetherquartz seams, and entire nations of Hysh measure their wealth and prestige by the purity of the crystal they command. To the disciplined aelven mind, it is both blessing and burden, a source of transcendent clarity purchased with a sliver of one's own humanity.