Lejtre

Lejtre is a fictional mineral invoked in speculative fiction and worldbuilding. It is described as a rare, luminescent crystalline material with practical and ceremonial uses.

In many depictions, lejtre acts as a semiconducting substance able to store and release energy when stimulated by magnetic or thermal fields. Its glow shifts with light exposure, moving from azure to emerald as conditions change.

Etymology varies by author, with lejtre commonly linked to ancient words meaning "light-bond" or "glow" in fictional languages.

Formation and occurrence: It forms in hydrothermal or metamorphic environments that create lattice defects capable of trapping charge. Crystals are typically prismatic, with a glassy luster; hardness around 4 on the Mohs scale.

Distribution and extraction: Deposits are localized to remote basins or geologically active zones; mining uses automated tunnels and drone crews under environmental and trade regulation.

Applications and impact: Used in micro-energy cells, sensors, optics, and jewelry. Its rarity shapes local economies and cultural narratives; variants such as lejtre-α and lejtre-β differ in energy density and emission spectrum.

In fictional glossaries, lejtre is cross-referenced with luminal ore and photonic minerals.