lökéstl

Lökéstl is a fictional mineral described in speculative fiction and worldbuilding. In the imagined setting it is valued for bright bioluminescence and relatively high energy density, which makes it central to certain technologies and aesthetic applications in that world. The term is used in in-universe geology and industrial texts to refer to a crystalline silicate that emits a cooling blue-green glow when exposed to ultraviolet light.

Etymology: The name lökéstl is constructed from imagined in-world roots lök- “light” and -éstl “stone.” Some linguists propose that the term preserves an older, pre-colonial root found in a sister language, while others treat it as a purely semantical coinage for mining terminology.

Physical properties: Lökéstl forms translucent to opaque crystals with a glassy to vitreous luster. It has a Mohs-like hardness around 5–6, a high refractive index, and a dense, brittle texture. It displays consistent blue-green luminescence under UV and can degrade under prolonged high heat unless stabilized by specific treatments.

Occurrence and formation: In the fictional geology, lökéstl occurs as nodular veins within basaltic crust formed by hydrothermal fluids at mid-crustal depths. It often coexists with silicate minerals and trace metals, and its luminescence is enhanced by mineral inclusions such as copper or europium.

History and usage: Lökéstl was first described by prospectors in the year 2142 in the Nova Trion frontier. In the narrative, it is harvested for niche energy storage devices and for ornamentation due to its glow. Field guides warn of brittleness and hazardous heat release if misused.

See also: glimmerstone, lumisite.