frosthart

Frosthart is a term used in fictional geology and fantasy literature to describe a pale, translucent mineral or crystalline substance that forms in subfreezing environments. Described as having a frost-blue or milky iridescence and a glassy luster, frosthart is typically portrayed as notably hard and unusually resistant to fracturing under cold stress. In many works, it is sourced from periglacial zones and cave systems where icy fluids interact with silicate-rich rock.

According to lore, frosthart forms when mineral-rich water cools rapidly at near-freezing temperatures, trapping microscopic ice inclusions that later coalesce into a solid crystal lattice. Its color and optical properties vary with trace elements, yielding hues from pale blue to nearly colorless. Frosthart is often described as having low electrical conductivity and high thermal stability in cold environments, though it may become brittle at heat.

Because of its supposed resilience to cold, frosthart is used in fantasy settings for tools and coverings in frigid climates, rune-inscribing plates, and as a durable material for weapons and armor in icy campaigns. Some fictional cultures associate frosthart with winter spirits or guardians, and it is used symbolically to represent endurance and purity.

Etymology and context: The name frosthart derives from frost, indicating cold origin, and hart, an archaic term for hard substance or stag, reflecting strength. In some texts the term is used interchangeably with 'iceglass' or 'frozen ore.'