Fathom Diamond

Suspended In SIlence

"The abyss does not forgive, nor does it forget. Each Fathom Diamond is a monument to those who dared to reach into its crushing depths and paid the price."

— From The Abyssal Chronicles: Explorations of the Unknown Depths by Historian Malric Thrayne

Deep within Aerith's oceans, in the eternal twilight of its crushing depths, nature performs an alchemy beyond comprehension. Here, where pressure molds water into something akin to stone, the rarest of treasures is born: the Fathom Diamond. These gemstones are suspended in pockets of pressure-frozen water, kept in place by the very force that created them. Unadorned by mysticism, they are a testament to the raw power of nature, formed under conditions that defy life itself. Fathom Diamonds are immediately recognizable by their striking hues, ranging from deep cerulean to shimmering aquamarine. Their surfaces are flawless, but they lack the shimmer or glow often attributed to magical materials. When touched, they radiate a biting cold, so intense that prolonged contact numbs the skin. It is said that the sensation is a fleeting echo of the crushing depths from which they hail, though such poetic descriptions fail to capture the sheer physicality of the experience. The rarity of Fathom Diamonds is not merely a matter of scarcity but of geography. They are found almost exclusively in the Illusion Sea, particularly in the Abyssal Veil—the second-deepest known point on Aerith. Unlike terrestrial gems, they do not settle in veins or deposits. Instead, they remain suspended in solidified water, unreachable by conventional means. Their location alone places them beyond the reach of most mortals, even before considering the dangers of the journey. To retrieve even a single Fathom Diamond requires not only advanced magical technology but also an extraordinary level of courage. The descent is fraught with peril, as the wildlife at these depths grows more alien and dangerous with every meter. Enormous predators, adapted to an existence in complete darkness, roam the abyss, their shapes and behaviors unknown even to scholars. For three centuries after the Shattering, these depths were considered impenetrable, even for Aerith's aquatic races. Those who survive the journey and return with a Fathom Diamond become legends in their own right. These gemstones carry no inherent arcane properties, yet their story imbues them with a value beyond gold. To hold one is to hold proof of humanity's—or any race's—triumph over nature’s most implacable extremes. They are more than treasures; they are trophies of survival and resilience. Despite their inert nature, the beauty and rarity of Fathom Diamonds make them highly sought after. Nobles adorn themselves with jewelry crafted from these gems, not for any supernatural advantage, but for the prestige that accompanies such a possession. A single carat can fetch sums capable of toppling economies, while larger specimens are considered priceless. Owning one is as much a statement as it is an indulgence. Yet, the allure of Fathom Diamonds is tempered by the cost of their acquisition. For every successful diver who emerges from the depths, countless others do not return. The Abyssal Veil demands sacrifices, and its toll is exacted without discretion. The high price of these gems serves as a grim reminder of the lives lost in their pursuit, a dark counterpoint to their radiant beauty. In the end, Fathom Diamonds are more than mere gemstones. They are symbols of Aerith’s untamed power and the indomitable spirit of those who challenge it. Each diamond is a fragment of a world that defies understanding, a piece of the ocean’s eternal dominion. They remind us that some wonders remain beyond reach, not because they are unattainable, but because the cost of claiming them is often too great.

Properties

Material Characteristics

"A gem of jagged edges and liquid hues, the Fathom Diamond reflects the stillness of the abyss. Its cerulean and aquamarine depths hold no light, only the memory of the ocean’s weight."

— From Shapes of the Deep: A Study of Oceanic Treasures by Professor Norell Vastyn

Fathom Diamonds are arresting in their simplicity, a blend of natural elegance and alien beauty forged by the crushing pressures of the ocean’s depths. Their colors range from deep, rich cerulean to a mesmerizing aquamarine, hues that evoke the stillness of twilight beneath the waves. The gemstone's surface is flawless, polished by the sheer force of its formation, with a smoothness that reflects light in a subdued, liquid-like sheen. Unlike typical gemstones, Fathom Diamonds exhibit no internal sparkle or fire. They seem to drink in the light, casting an almost hypnotic sense of depth when observed closely. To the untrained eye, they might appear as impossibly clear and vibrantly colored glass, though their extraordinary density becomes obvious when held. Touching a Fathom Diamond reveals its most distinctive trait: an intense, almost unbearable chill. This cold is not the comforting cool of a mountain spring but the biting numbness of something pulled from the frozen abyss. Prolonged handling can leave skin tingling, as if recovering from frostbite, though the effect is entirely physical and not magical. In its raw state, the gem appears as an irregular crystal, its edges marked by the conditions of its creation. However, once cut and polished, it takes on an otherworldly refinement, as though it were a fragment of the ocean itself. The combination of its flawless form, striking color, and tactile chill makes the Fathom Diamond an unmatched treasure, even among Aerith’s most exotic materials.

Physical & Chemical Properties

"Neither fire nor acid bends its will, and no force but the crushing weight of the abyss can shape it. A Fathom Diamond is not merely formed—it is born, unyielding and untouched by time."

— Excerpt from The Alchemist’s Manifesto: Studies in Nature’s Indomitability by Eryndel Forthwright

Fathom Diamonds are defined by their extraordinary density, a direct result of the immense pressure under which they are formed. When held, they feel surprisingly heavy for their size, as if they carry the weight of the ocean’s deepest secrets within them. Their hardness rivals that of traditional diamonds, making them resistant to scratches and surface damage. However, this rigidity comes at a cost—under a force improperly applied, they are prone to shatter with clean, almost surgical precision. A defining characteristic of Fathom Diamonds is their perpetual chill. No matter the ambient conditions, the gems remain intensely cold to the touch, producing a sensation reminiscent of holding melting ice. This biting cold lingers long after the gem is set down, leaving a faint tingling sensation on the skin. The effect is purely physical and not magical in origin, a consequence of the extreme conditions of their formation. Despite this frozen nature, the diamonds exhibit remarkable heat resistance, able to endure temperatures that would melt steel without warping or losing structural integrity. However, their striking cerulean and aquamarine hues can fade under prolonged exposure to direct flame or intense magical heat, leaving behind a duller, washed-out appearance. Chemically, Fathom Diamonds are inert. They resist corrosion, showing no reaction to acids, alkalis, or any other substance commonly encountered. This stability makes them highly prized in environments or crafts where durability is paramount. Their inertness extends to other properties as well—Fathom Diamonds are neither magnetic nor conductive, rendering them unsuitable for use in technological applications that rely on electrical or magnetic interactions. Instead, their insulating qualities are sometimes utilized in alchemical or industrial designs that require complete isolation from external interference. Perhaps the most unique aspect of Fathom Diamonds is their origin within pressure-frozen water. While the gems themselves remain intact once removed, their relationship with their birthplace is severed. They no longer exhibit any connection to the unique conditions of the deep ocean. This lack of any inherent arcane or mystical resonance underscores their true nature: a testament to natural forces rather than supernatural intervention. Their allure lies not in utility but in rarity and the nearly impossible journey required to retrieve them.

Compounds

Despite their inert nature and lack of inherent magical properties, Fathom Diamonds find their way into a few specialized applications, though these are rare and often more symbolic than practical. Their extreme rarity and the sheer difficulty of obtaining them mean that most uses are limited to the realms of the wealthy, the ambitious, or the utterly extravagant. In high-end alchemical processes, powdered Fathom Diamond is sometimes employed as an inert stabilizer in volatile reactions. Its resistance to heat and lack of chemical reactivity make it a useful—if impractically expensive—choice for ensuring delicate compounds remain stable under extreme conditions. However, this use is almost exclusively the domain of elite alchemists crafting substances of unparalleled potency, often for noble houses or powerful individuals who can justify the immense cost. Beyond alchemy, Fathom Diamonds have been incorporated into ceremonial alloys and artistic creations. Smelting minute quantities of powdered diamond with precious metals, such as platinum or Arin Silver, results in alloys with a faint aquamarine sheen. These alloys, used primarily in ceremonial armor, jewelry, and decorative weaponry, are highly sought after for their aesthetic qualities rather than any mechanical advantage. Such items serve as status symbols, worn or displayed by those wishing to showcase their wealth and influence. In the culinary world, the use of Fathom Diamond borders on the absurd. There are whispered tales of chefs in royal courts grinding the gems into an impossibly fine dust to adorn extravagant desserts or cocktails, a practice designed to dazzle and awe more than to contribute to flavor or nutrition. While the crystalline texture adds a unique crunch and sparkle to the presentation, the act is largely seen as wasteful decadence, reserved for displays of opulence rather than genuine culinary creativity. The most enduring and respected compound involving Fathom Diamonds is symbolic rather than material. The gem’s fragments are sometimes embedded in sacred or commemorative objects, such as the hilt of a ceremonial sword or the crown of a ruler. These items, infused with the story of the diamond’s origin, are imbued with cultural significance, representing the triumph of perseverance and the awe-inspiring power of nature. In this way, the Fathom Diamond transcends its material form, becoming part of a narrative larger than itself.

Geology & Geography

"In the uncharted depths where the sun’s reach falters, and the sea turns to stone, the Fathom Diamond sleeps—guarded by the weight of a thousand lifetimes and the silence of the abyss."

— From Beyond the Horizon: A Geographer’s Journey into the Unknown by Callas Veylin

Fathom Diamonds are a phenomenon unique to the depths of Aerith’s oceans, forming exclusively in regions where the interplay of immense pressure and mineral-rich waters creates the ideal conditions for their birth. The most significant source of these gems is the Illusion Sea, particularly the Abyssal Veil, a vast chasm that plunges deeper than nearly any other location on Aerith. The Veil is a place of eternal darkness and crushing pressure, where the water itself behaves more like stone, locking Fathom Diamonds in suspended stillness. The Abyssal Veil is not merely a deep trench; it is an ecosystem all its own, marked by extreme geothermal activity and peculiar mineral formations. Here, volcanic vents release superheated water rich in dissolved minerals, providing the raw materials necessary for the diamonds’ formation. Over millennia, these minerals crystallize under relentless pressure, creating the flawless, dense gems that remain suspended in pockets of pressure-frozen water. While the Illusion Sea hosts the majority of known deposits, other rumored locations exist in similarly remote and hostile environments. Some divers speak of discovering faint traces of Fathom Diamonds in the Blackwater Abyss of the Southern Ocean, though these accounts remain unverified. What is certain is that the conditions required for their creation are extraordinarily rare, requiring not only extreme depths but also the presence of specific geological and chemical elements that are seldom found together. Despite their rarity, the geography of these formations ensures that Fathom Diamonds remain elusive. They do not settle into veins or deposits like terrestrial gemstones but remain locked in isolated pockets within their frozen surroundings. Retrieving them is an almost impossible task, demanding not only advanced magical and technological assistance but also the courage to venture into some of Aerith’s most dangerous waters. The geography of the regions that produce Fathom Diamonds reflects the harsh, untamed beauty of Aerith’s oceans. These places are defined by their isolation and hostility, where life adapts in ways that defy understanding. The gems themselves are a reflection of this environment—formed in the most remote and unforgiving corners of the world, their origins are as much a story of endurance as they are of natural wonder.

Origin & Source

"Forged by the crushing embrace of the deep, the Fathom Diamond owes its existence to forces beyond mortal reach—pressure, time, and the quiet violence of the abyss."

— From Origins of Wonder: The World's Rarest Treasures by Alaric Deynn

Fathom Diamonds are not extracted from ore, grown on trees, or harvested from any living creature—they are born directly from the unrelenting forces of the ocean’s abyss. Their formation occurs in pockets of pressure-frozen water found at extreme depths, most famously within the Abyssal Veil of the Illusion Sea. Here, volcanic activity enriches the water with dissolved minerals, which are then compacted and crystallized under the crushing weight of the ocean. The “ore” of a Fathom Diamond is the abyss itself—a unique combination of environmental factors that create an otherworldly crucible. The minerals required to form these gems are suspended in the super-compressed water near geothermal vents. Over millennia, these elements crystallize into the dense and flawless gemstones known as Fathom Diamonds. This process is entirely natural, requiring no external influence or intervention, and can only occur in specific conditions that are nearly impossible to replicate outside their native environment. The diamond’s physical state is inseparable from its birthplace. Unlike traditional gemstones found in veins or deposits, Fathom Diamonds remain suspended in the solidified water that formed them. These frozen “pockets” are scattered across the floor of the Abyssal Veil, hidden in remote trenches and caverns that are often inaccessible even to the most advanced technology or magic. The true rarity of Fathom Diamonds lies in the singularity of their origin. No other location on Aerith reliably reproduces the combination of immense pressure, volcanic enrichment, and time necessary to create them. This makes each diamond not just a treasure of the ocean, but a fragment of an environment so hostile that it has remained largely untouched and unstudied by surface dwellers. To hold a Fathom Diamond is to possess a piece of the abyss itself.

History & Usage

History

"Once dismissed as the dreams of sailors, the Fathom Diamond became a symbol of triumph when myth gave way to discovery—an achievement etched in the annals of those bold enough to challenge the sea’s grip."

— From Legends Unveiled: The Chronicles of Aerith’s Greatest Finds by Historian Veyra Callon

The history of Fathom Diamonds is as enigmatic as their origins, shrouded in mystery and marked by humanity's enduring fascination with the unattainable. For centuries, they were little more than myths whispered among sailors and divers who claimed to have glimpsed shimmering crystals suspended in the depths. These tales spoke of a treasure hidden by the ocean itself, inaccessible to mortals. In the centuries before the Shattering, when magic flourished and the seas were navigated with arcane precision, such stories were dismissed as fanciful exaggerations, the idle talk of those bewitched by the ocean’s dangers. After the Shattering, however, when the world’s magic fractured and knowledge of the deep became fragmented, the legends of Fathom Diamonds gained a new allure. The oceans, already perilous, became even more treacherous as magic waned and the tools for undersea exploration diminished. The diamonds were perceived as symbols of defiance against this growing darkness—rare fragments of a world that seemed increasingly out of reach. Attempts to retrieve them were few and often met with failure, reinforcing the idea that these gemstones were unattainable treasures, gifts from the abyss meant to remain untouched. It was not until the advent of advanced magical reconstruction and early technological innovation during the Age of Rediscovery that Fathom Diamonds began to transition from myth to reality. Aquatic races, such as the merfolk and tritons, spearheaded the first successful retrievals, using a blend of ancient techniques and newfound ingenuity to brave the crushing depths. Their efforts brought the first confirmed Fathom Diamonds to the surface, sparking a frenzy of interest among surface-dwelling kingdoms. Nobles and scholars alike coveted these gemstones, not for their utility, but for the sheer prestige of owning something born from the abyss. Throughout the modern era, Fathom Diamonds have retained their mystique, though their rarity ensures that they remain largely symbolic rather than practical. They have been incorporated into royal regalia, sacred relics, and ceremonial weapons, their presence serving as a testament to the perseverance of those who retrieved them. The diamonds’ perceived value has shifted over time—not as a material of function, but as an icon of achievement, bravery, and defiance against the ocean’s depths. Despite their inert nature, some cultures continue to weave myths around Fathom Diamonds, attributing their creation to ancient sea gods or forgotten civilizations. These stories persist, not because they are believed, but because they lend a sense of grandeur to the gems. In truth, Fathom Diamonds have never been about what they can do—they have always been about what they represent. From myth to reality, their history is a tale of humanity’s drive to explore the unknown, no matter the cost.

Discovery

"The first Fathom Diamond was not found—it was earned. Wrested from the ocean’s grasp at a depth no light could follow, it marked the beginning of an obsession with the treasures of the abyss."

— From Into the Void: Explorers of the Abyssal Veil by Cartographer Elys Varneth

The discovery of Fathom Diamonds is rooted in equal parts bravery, desperation, and happenstance. While sailors and divers had spun tales of glowing treasures in the ocean depths for centuries, no verifiable record of their existence emerged until the late Third Era, during the Age of Rediscovery. The first confirmed Fathom Diamond was brought to the surface by a coalition of merfolk explorers, led by the legendary deep-sea diver Kaelion Driftwake, a triton renowned for his daring expeditions into the uncharted waters of the Illusion Sea. Kaelion’s expedition to the Abyssal Veil was not initially motivated by the pursuit of riches. His goal was to map the Veil’s geothermal vents and document the peculiar ecosystems thriving in its crushing depths. It was during one of these dives that his team stumbled upon the first suspended field of pressure-frozen water containing the shimmering crystals. Fascinated and cautious, Kaelion managed to retrieve a single specimen using methods that remain closely guarded secrets of the aquatic races to this day. The diamond’s arrival at the surface sparked immediate interest among scholars and nobles. Its flawless beauty and chilling touch led to rampant speculation about its origin and properties. Initially, it was thought to be imbued with arcane power, though extensive studies quickly debunked this assumption. Instead, the gem’s allure lay in its story: a treasure hidden within one of the most inhospitable places on Aerith, brought to light by the sheer audacity of those willing to brave the unknown. Kaelion’s discovery inspired a wave of attempts by surface-dwelling races to replicate his success. Early expeditions ended in failure, with many divers succumbing to the Veil’s perils or returning empty-handed. It was not until the invention of hybrid arcane and technological diving apparatuses centuries later that surface dwellers began to achieve limited success. These breakthroughs enabled the Illusion Sea to become a focus of exploration and the primary source of Fathom Diamonds to this day. Though Kaelion Driftwake is credited with the first retrieval, the story of Fathom Diamonds’ discovery is a shared triumph between the aquatic and surface-dwelling peoples of Aerith. Their collaborative efforts to uncover these treasures forged a rare connection between their worlds, cementing the gems’ place as symbols of unity, perseverance, and the enduring mystery of the deep.

Everyday use

"No mortal hand shapes a Fathom Diamond for function. Its beauty lies in its defiance, its worth in the lives risked to bring it to light—a jewel made not for use, but for awe."

— From Treasures of the Abyss: Cultural Artifacts of Aerith by Lirien Valcrest

Fathom Diamonds, despite their breathtaking beauty and symbolic value, are virtually absent from the realm of everyday life. Their extreme rarity and the immense difficulty of retrieval ensure that they remain far beyond the reach of the average citizen, existing only as legends or distant aspirations for most of Aerith’s people. Even in the hands of the wealthy and powerful, these gems are rarely used for practical purposes, instead serving as symbols of status, achievement, and extravagance. Among the elite, Fathom Diamonds are most commonly incorporated into jewelry and ceremonial artifacts. Necklaces, rings, and tiaras adorned with these gemstones are often worn by nobles during significant events, not for any intrinsic utility, but as a declaration of their wealth and influence. Such items are seen as treasures that mark their owners as patrons of adventure and risk, indirectly reflecting their capacity to fund expeditions into the perilous depths where the gems are found. Outside of jewelry, the diamonds occasionally appear in decorative elements of royal or religious regalia. Crowns, scepters, and ceremonial armor are adorned with Fathom Diamonds to underscore their importance as emblems of leadership and unity. These items are often reserved for figures of immense political or spiritual significance, ensuring that the diamonds remain associated with power and reverence. On rare occasions, powdered Fathom Diamond is used in alchemical experiments, though this is a privilege limited to the most skilled and well-funded alchemists. Such usage is highly controversial, as it is seen by many as a waste of a priceless resource for uncertain gains. Similarly, there are whispered tales of indulgent nobles using powdered diamond as an ostentatious garnish for extravagant feasts or drinks, though these accounts are often dismissed as exaggerated displays of vanity. For the vast majority of Aerith’s inhabitants, Fathom Diamonds remain an unattainable curiosity—something to marvel at in stories or through rare glimpses in museums or at public ceremonies. Their common use lies not in practicality but in their ability to inspire wonder, represent triumph over impossible odds, and remind the world of the treasures that lie hidden in the deepest, most unreachable parts of the ocean.

Refinement

"A Fathom Diamond requires no forge or flame—only patience and reverence. To refine it is not to alter, but to reveal what the abyss has already perfected." — From The Art of Preservation: Handling Nature’s Rarest Gems by Master Jeweler Coren Thalain Fathom Diamonds are unique in that they require minimal refinement once extracted from their abyssal origins. Unlike metals or other raw materials, these gemstones emerge in a near-perfect state, their flawless surfaces and vivid hues shaped entirely by the natural processes of the ocean’s depths. However, the journey from discovery to use is not without its challenges, as their unique formation demands careful handling and preparation. When first retrieved, Fathom Diamonds are suspended in pressure-frozen pockets of water, a phenomenon that preserves their crystalline integrity. Extracting the gem from this state requires precision and patience. Divers or collectors often use a combination of magical containment fields and gradual pressurization chambers to safely transition the diamonds from their native environment to surface conditions. Rushing this process can result in the gem fracturing or shattering, as the abrupt release of pressure destabilizes its internal structure. Once stabilized, Fathom Diamonds are typically inspected for impurities or structural anomalies. Though exceedingly rare, minor flaws in their composition can sometimes occur, often caused by variations in the mineral-rich waters where they formed. These imperfections are meticulously polished away, leaving the gemstone in its ideal state for use in jewelry or decorative applications. Unlike metals or ores, Fathom Diamonds require no smelting, distillation, or chemical refinement. Their allure lies in their natural perfection, and any attempt to alter their fundamental properties is seen as unnecessary and even sacrilegious by many. The most common "refinement" they undergo is cutting and polishing, a process performed only by master gemcutters skilled enough to work with such rare and delicate material. The aim is not to change the gem but to enhance its inherent beauty, shaping it into forms that maximize its refractive qualities while preserving its signature cold-to-the-touch texture. In their raw form, Fathom Diamonds are beautiful but unwieldy, often irregularly shaped and encased in remnants of their frozen matrix. Through careful extraction and precision craftsmanship, they are transformed into treasures that captivate the imagination and serve as timeless symbols of achievement. This process, though relatively straightforward compared to other materials, demands expertise and a deep respect for the gem’s origins, ensuring that its journey from the ocean depths to the surface is as remarkable as the gem itself.

Hazards

"The danger of a Fathom Diamond lies not in its nature, but in its creation—pressures that can crush steel, waters that shatter bone, and depths that few return from to tell the tale."

— From A Treatise on Abyssal Frontiers by Orlin Venthar While Fathom Diamonds are inert and chemically stable, their refinement, extraction, and even possession carry unique and significant hazards. These dangers are not rooted in the material itself but rather in the extraordinary conditions of its origin and the consequences of its retrieval. The most immediate hazard lies in the extraction process. The pressure-frozen pockets of water that cradle Fathom Diamonds are among the most inhospitable environments on Aerith. Divers face the crushing weight of the abyss, where even the most advanced magical or technological equipment can fail under the strain. Abrupt changes in pressure during the retrieval process can destabilize the diamond’s structure, causing it to fracture violently and potentially injure those nearby. Furthermore, the alien wildlife of these depths often perceives intruders as threats, adding an unpredictable layer of peril to every attempt to harvest these gems. During refinement, the diamonds pose minimal direct risk, but the extraction process itself requires handling high-pressure systems and magical containment fields. Improper techniques can result in catastrophic failures, causing injury to those attempting to stabilize the gems. Additionally, fragmenting or fracturing a diamond can produce razor-sharp shards capable of inflicting severe cuts, though this is rare due to the meticulous care taken during processing. The possession of Fathom Diamonds also carries its own set of hazards, albeit of a more indirect nature. Their extreme rarity and immense value make them coveted targets for thieves, smugglers, and black-market dealers. Owners of such gems often attract unwanted attention, and many tales abound of nobles or collectors who met untimely ends after flaunting their acquisitions too openly. In some regions, carrying or trading in Fathom Diamonds is strictly regulated to prevent conflicts and ensure their preservation as cultural artifacts. In terms of health, Fathom Diamonds are non-toxic and pose no long-term risks to handlers. The intense cold they emit is purely physical and fades once the gem is set down, leaving no lasting harm. However, prolonged direct contact can cause temporary numbness or even frostbite-like symptoms, especially if handled without proper insulation. These effects are superficial and easily avoided with appropriate precautions. Ultimately, the hazards of Fathom Diamonds lie not in their inherent properties but in the challenges and risks surrounding their retrieval and ownership. They remain a material of wonder and admiration, but those who seek them must weigh their beauty against the dangers they bring, both from the ocean and from the world above.

Distribution

Trade & Market

Fathom Diamonds occupy a unique position in Aerith’s economy, existing solely as a luxury good and a symbol of unattainable prestige. Their extreme rarity and the extraordinary risks involved in their retrieval ensure they remain inaccessible to all but the wealthiest and most powerful individuals. As a result, the trade of Fathom Diamonds is a tightly controlled and highly specialized market. The primary sources of Fathom Diamonds are the aquatic races of Aerith, particularly the merfolk and tritons who maintain a cultural and practical monopoly on their extraction. Operating from cities deep beneath the waves, these races possess the knowledge and equipment necessary to navigate the perilous Abyssal Veil. For them, the diamonds are both a source of trade and a cultural treasure, and they are careful to regulate their sale to surface dwellers. Most diamonds enter the surface world through tightly monitored trade agreements, ensuring their rarity is preserved. On the surface, the sale of Fathom Diamonds is largely confined to elite markets in major cities, often overseen by powerful noble houses or sanctioned merchant guilds. These gems are typically auctioned at grand events, where collectors, royalty, and influential merchants bid astronomical sums for even the smallest specimens. The auctions are as much spectacles as they are transactions, attended by the wealthy and curious who wish to witness the trade of one of Aerith’s rarest treasures. The value of a Fathom Diamond is not fixed; it fluctuates based on its size, clarity, and the circumstances of its retrieval. Diamonds brought to the surface by renowned divers or during high-profile expeditions often fetch higher prices due to the stories attached to them. Smaller gems are occasionally sold to master jewelers, who incorporate them into exquisite pieces of jewelry, further increasing their value by adding artistic craftsmanship to their natural beauty. However, the market is not without its shadows. A thriving black market exists for Fathom Diamonds, catering to those unwilling or unable to participate in sanctioned trade. These illicit sales are often fraught with danger, as stolen or smuggled diamonds are highly traceable, and their possession without proper documentation can attract severe penalties. Buyers in these markets are just as likely to face betrayal or violence as they are to obtain a genuine gem. Ultimately, Fathom Diamonds are a symbol of wealth, power, and the extraordinary lengths one must go to acquire them. They are not staples or practical resources but exotic trophies that represent the triumph of mortal ingenuity and determination against the ocean’s deepest mysteries. For those who possess them, they are not merely gems—they are stories, artifacts of wonder, and testaments to humanity’s endless pursuit of the unattainable.

Type

Stone

Value

Astronomical

Rarity

Unparalleled

Odor

Odorless

Taste

None

Color

Deep cerulean to shimmering aquamarine.

Density

Extremely high, heavier than most gemstones of comparable size.