Erdtz

Erdtz is a fictional mineral that appears in science fiction literature and tabletop role-playing settings. It is described as a rare silicate with luminescent properties and notable catalytic potential. The term is not used in real-world geology.

In most depictions, erdtz crystallizes in a silicate lattice and ranges in color from violet-blue to greenish; it is said to fluoresce under ultraviolet light. Its composition is variable across works, but authors typically attribute trace rare-earth, transition, or actinoid elements to the mineral.

Geographically, erdtz is portrayed as forming in extreme crustal conditions, including deep terrestrial deposits, subduction zones, or extraterrestrial contexts such as asteroid belts and shattered moons. Deposits are described as high-purity but scarce, leading to lucrative trade in some settings.

Applications in fiction include energy storage, advanced propulsion, starship shielding, and photonic displays. In game adaptations, erdtz often serves as a valuable resource with several rarity levels and trade dynamics, sometimes granting unique abilities or bonuses to characters who possess it.

Etymology: the name erdtz appears to be a constructed term with possible influences from Germanic roots and common mineral-name conventions in speculative fiction; there is no standardized origin across works.

See also: List of fictional minerals; Crystal (fictional mineral).