Veeaurust

Veeaurust is a fictional mineral described in speculative mineralogy and used in worldbuilding. It is characterized by a high-density metallic composition and a layered crystal structure that yields anisotropic physical properties. In the lore, veeaurust forms under extreme conditions where vanadium- and ruthenium-rich phases co-crystallize, often in ultra-high-pressure environments such as deep subduction zones or planetary differentiation scenarios. The name blends a phonetic “vee” with a nod to metallic, “aur” roots, chosen to evoke luster and mystery.

Composition and structure: The mineral is described as primarily containing vanadium and ruthenium, with sulfur or other chalcogens as minor constituents. It is said to crystallize in a tetragonal system with layered sheets that provide directional hardness and conductivity. Typical properties attributed in sources include a steel-gray to iridescent color, high density (about 7.5–8.0 g/cm3), Mohs hardness near 6, and a strong magnetic response at low temperatures. Some speculative models propose superconducting behavior under cryogenic conditions, though this remains fictional.

Occurrence and discovery: Veeaurust is depicted as appearing in ultramafic rocks, extraterrestrial impact-melt pockets, or deep planetary interiors, where chemical potentials favor vanadium–ruthenium interactions. It is said to have been first described by a fictional researcher in a speculative journal, and it has since become a common element in worldbuilding related to mineralogy-inspired settings.

Applications and significance: In fiction, veeaurust features in discussions of advanced materials, energy storage, and magnetism due to its described combination of density, strength, and potential electronic properties. It is often used to illustrate processes at extreme crustal conditions and to anchor material-science narratives.