Lodestones

Lodestones are naturally occurring mineral matrices capable of resonating with magic. These precious rocks form near Divine Wells and are highly prized magical implements. They allow for the storage and use of spells by anyone, at anytime, and thus are crucial to the many magical undertakings.

Physical Properties
Raw lodestones appear as dull gray rocks, but transform when a spell is cast upon them, taking on some indicator of the spell cast; washing blue light trapped in a crystal, sparkling flecks of yellows and oranges, or an unsettling purple that twists and folds upon itself would be examples. There are 4 grades and 5 sizes of lodestones; poor, good, fine, and divine, and tiny, small ,medium, large, and smiting (tiny is the size of a thumbnail, small a peach pit, medium a fist, large a head, and smiting are siege caliber stones).

Uses and Warnings
Lodestones are single-use items, destroyed upon use (throwing them to the ground or crushing them on something). Spell qualities upon use depend greatly upon both the caster and the lodestone itself. The spell's potential is limited to the ability of the magician at the time of casting while the quality and size of the stone are critical to a safe and stable spell. Casting a powerful spell upon a flawed and small lodestone lends itself to a dangerously unstable matrix that could go off unexpectedly or create unintended consequences.

Being as fragile as they are, lodestones are not shaped into weapons or ammunition, though the occasional relic will have a lodestone incorporated into its structure. These storied weapons are tremendously powerful, with effects atypical of usual magic weapons.

Obtaining
Lodestones can be purchased at most magical supplies shops, who in turn purchase them from the Church of Wardens, who, by virtue of controlling the Divine Wells, control the lodestone economy.