eltarthats

Eltarthats are a class of luminescent crystalline minerals found in deep-sea hydrothermal vent zones and certain volcanic terrains. They are characterized by iridescent internal lattices and strong photoluminescent properties when exposed to ultraviolet light.

Discovery and name: The term was proposed after expeditions in the Eltarth Basin led by marine geologist Lian Marek in 2042. The name combines a local word for light with the suffix common in mineral nomenclature. Eltarthat is the proposed singular form, and Eltarthats is the preferred plural.

Composition and structure: Eltarthats are silicate minerals enriched with trace rare earth elements. They form layered polycrystalline aggregates with a hyperuniform microstructure, yielding anisotropic optical properties and stable emission up to around 450 C.

Formation and locality: They occur in vent chimneys built by metal sulfide deposition and in high-temperature silicic volcanic contexts. Formation requires fluids rich in silica and rare earths under high pressure, typically at depths of 1.5–3.0 kilometers.

Uses and research: In materials science, eltarthats are studied as photonic materials and potential energy-storage components due to long-lasting luminescence and high thermal stability. They have attracted interest for sensors, imaging, and decorative applications in museums and exhibitions.

See also: Photoluminescence; Photonic crystal; Silicate mineral.