kyllast

Kyllast is a fictional crystalline mineral widely referenced in speculative science fiction and worldbuilding. In most depictions, kyllast forms in deep hydrothermal veins and consists of layered silicates with luminescent inclusions that emit a faint glow when exposed to ultraviolet light. Authors often imbue kyllast with extraordinary energy-handling properties, describing it as capable of storing large amounts of energy and enabling near-lossless transmission in optical or quantum systems. The crystal is typically portrayed as rare and valuable, with deposits confined to certain planetary belts or asteroid basins and subject to intense competition and political conflict over access.

Physical traits commonly attributed to kyllast include a high refractive index, strong birefringence, and a distinctive blue-green sheen. Reported hardness ranges around 6.5 on the Mohs scale, with good fracture resistance in bulk form. Its hypothetical conductivity or superconductivity is often a central plot element, enabling futuristic devices and propulsion concepts in fiction.

Origin and etymology: The term kyllast appears to be a neologism introduced by multiple authors, with no single canonical origin. The name is generally associated with mythic or enigmatic mineral lore within its respective works.

See also: fictional materials, quantum materials in fiction, worldbuilding resources.