skeletonit

Skeletonit is a fictional mineral described in geoscience fiction and fantasy literature and games. It is not known to occur in the real world, and references to skeletonit pertain to world-building contexts rather than established geology.

The name skeletonit is derived from its segmented, bone-like crystal habit described by observers in several works. The term is used to emphasize the apparent lattice-like structure of the mineral when viewed in thin sections or under magnification.

In the fiction, skeletonit forms in hydrothermal veins within ultramafic and basaltic rocks where fluorine-rich fluids crystallize at moderate temperatures. Crystals grow as slender, needle-like prisms that can interlock to create a lattice with high apparent stiffness. Reported sources in narratives include the Grey Spine region and the coastal archipelago of Aurel Bay.

Skeletonit typically displays a pale white to pale blue color, with a vitreous luster. It has a conchoidal fracture, a relatively low Mohs hardness around 4 to 5, and a density near 3.1 g/cm³. Larger crystals can be translucent, allowing light to pass with a soft glow in certain lighting conditions within the stories.

In fiction, skeletonit is valued for a favorable strength-to-weight ratio, making it useful in lightweight mechanical components and jewelry. It is also depicted as a catalyst or energy conductor in some magical-technological systems within the narratives.

Because skeletonit is fictional, no scientific mining information exists; narratives describe speculative mining operations and small-scale trade routes that link remote mining towns to craft centers.