kohinaton

Kohinaton is a fictional mineral used in speculative geology and science fiction. In in-universe encyclopedias it is described as a transitory phase with distinctive luminescent properties and potential practical applications in advanced materials. The name kohinaton is a neologism formed from an imagined language element kohina and the conventional mineral suffix -ton.

In the fictional lore, kohinaton is thought to crystallize under extreme conditions—high pressure and temperature associated with subduction zones or planetary accretion events—from complex oxide-silicate melts. It is described as existing in several polymorphs, with a layered or framework-like structure that can accommodate trace rare-earth ions.

Physical properties repeatedly noted by in-universe researchers include a pale blue to teal color, a vitreous to pearly luster, and a relatively high refractive index. Reported hardness ranges around 6.5 to 7 on the Mohs scale, with pronounced birefringence and notable luminescence under ultraviolet light.

Occurrence and significance: kohinaton is considered rare and location-dependent, with fictional specimens reported in subduction-zone analogs, meteorite impact sites, or remote planetary terrains. In science-fiction contexts it is proposed as a source of luminescent pigments, ornamental gemstones, and a speculative energy-storage material. It has no basis in established real-world mineralogy.

In-universe references often position kohinaton among speculative minerals alongside luminescent silicates and exotic oxides.