Gleam

Gleam’s physical properties are similar to those of many non-ferrous metals: it is soft and ductile.

Its density is less than gold’s. Cast into ingots, it is not easily mistaken for gold, because its surface looks somewhat crystalline, even though the metal is highly ductile.

As a metal, gleam is usually found in small nodular deposits in quartz, or as placer.

Gleam is a traded commodity, though a rare one. Human jewelers and artisans regularly use it for decorative purposes.

Gleam occupies an interesting economic place: it is both ornament and safeguard (decus et tutamen).

Gleam has been used as an informal store of value, and has been minted into a "craft currency", though its conversion value is highly variable.

Gleam can be pounded into carved surfaces as a decorative filigree. It can be hammered into foil, and onto iron. Done with skill, this gives a durable, rust-proof coating.

In use, an iron piece loses its gleam, but the protective effect seems to act at a molecular level. The interaction of gleam with iron seems to be one of molecular diffusion. Even a well-used engleamed weapon is therefore far less subject to rust.

If engleamed iron is smelted, the gleam separates from it and may be recycled.