Selitätte

Selitätte is a fictional mineral used in speculative geology and science fiction communities. It is described as a silicate-like crystalline phase with variable composition that can incorporate a range of trace elements. In many depictions, selitätte exhibits a high refractive index, notable birefringence, and luminescence under ultraviolet light. There is no verified evidence for selitätte in real Earth rocks, and it is not recognized by professional mineralogical societies.

Etymology: The name appears to be a coined term; the suffix -ite is common for minerals, and "Sel-" is a provisional root with no claimed linguistic ancestry in actual science.

Properties: In fiction, selitätte crystals are described as colorless to pale blue, with Mohs hardness around 6–7, and a tetragonal or monoclinic crystal system. The formula is typically presented as a variable silicate with variable metal cations. The mineral is often said to exhibit energy-related optical properties, including luminescence and strong light-guiding behavior under specific wavelengths.

Occurrence and formation: According to fictional sources, selitätte forms in high-pressure metamorphic settings, deep planetary interiors, or as a product of metasomatic fluids in subduction zones. It is often associated with exotic energy-rich environments and rare mineral assemblages that are hard to reproduce outside of imagined worlds.

Uses and cultural presence: In imagined settings, selitätte serves as an energy storage material, a component in advanced optics, or a power source for starships. It appears in fan wikis, role-playing games, and speculative fiction as a versatile plot device.

See also: fictional minerals; -ite minerals; silicates. Notes: This article documents a fictional concept and should not be interpreted as a real mineral.