======Magical Alloys======
=====Introduction=====
While the specific term "alloy" is not explicitly used in the original seven novels, the concept of unique, magically-imbued metallic mixtures is a fundamental element of [[goblin]] [[metalwork]]. The most prominent example is the substance known as [[goblin]]-made silver, which possesses extraordinary properties that far exceed those of materials forged by [[wizards]]. This entry details the characteristics, history, and significance of such magical materials, primarily through the lens of the [[Sword of Gryffindor]].
=====Material Information=====
  * **Type:** Magical Material / Substance
  * **Primary Example:** [[Goblin]]-made Silver
  * **Makers:** Principally [[Goblins]], who are master metalsmiths. Notable makers include [[Ragnuk the First]].
  * **Known Components:** The [[Sword of Gryffindor]] is described as being made of pure silver, forged by [[goblins]] and set with [[rubies]]. Its magical properties, however, make it function like a unique and powerful alloy.
=====Description and Magical Properties=====
[[Goblin]]-made silver is described as exceptionally beautiful and resilient. Objects crafted from it, like the [[Sword of Gryffindor]], are not only physically robust but are also imbued with powerful enchantments during their forging. The key magical properties include:
  * **Self-Maintenance:** [[Goblin]]-made silver repels ordinary dirt and does not require cleaning.
  * **Imbuing Property:** It has the unique ability to imbibe any substance that will make it stronger. The [[Sword of Gryffindor]] demonstrated this when [[Harry Potter]] used it to kill the [[Basilisk]] in the [[Chamber of Secrets]]. The sword absorbed the potent [[Basilisk Venom]] into its blade, a property that later made it one of the few instruments capable of destroying [[Voldemort]]'s [[Horcruxes]].
  * **Resilience:** It is incredibly strong and durable, capable of withstanding immense physical and magical stress.
These properties are a result of the [[goblins]]' closely guarded forging secrets, which [[wizards]] have never been able to replicate.
=====History and Ownership Disputes=====
The history of magical alloys is intrinsically linked to the history of the [[goblin]] race and their complex relationship with [[wizards]]. [[Goblins]] consider themselves the true and perpetual owners of the items they create, regardless of any payment received from a client. In their view, a wizard who "buys" a goblin-made item is merely leasing it for their lifetime.
This cultural belief is the source of major historical conflicts, most notably concerning the [[Sword of Gryffindor]]. The sword was forged by the renowned goblin king [[Ragnuk the First]] for [[Godric Gryffindor]]. According to the goblin version of history, once [[Gryffindor]] had paid for the sword, [[Ragnuk the First]] coveted it so much that he tried to steal it back, leading to a bloody conflict. This deep-seated grievance over ownership resurfaces centuries later when [[Griphook]] agrees to help [[Harry Potter]], [[Ron Weasley]], and [[Hermione Granger]] break into [[Gringotts Wizarding Bank]] in exchange for the sword.
=====Role in the Story=====
The unique properties of the magical "alloy" that comprises the [[Sword of Gryffindor]] are central to the plot of the entire series, especially in //Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows//. After [[Albus Dumbledore]] discovered that [[Basilisk Venom]] could destroy a [[Horcrux]], he realised the sword, now imbued with the venom, was a key weapon in the fight against [[Lord Voldemort]].
The sword is used to destroy several [[Horcruxes]]:
  * [[Marvolo Gaunt's Ring]] (Destroyed by [[Albus Dumbledore]])
  * [[Salazar Slytherin's Locket]] (Destroyed by [[Ron Weasley]])
  * [[Nagini]] (Killed by [[Neville Longbottom]], destroying the final [[Horcrux]])
The dispute over the sword's ownership also becomes a critical plot point, driving the trio's alliance with [[Griphook]] and leading to their perilous infiltration of [[Bellatrix Lestrange]]'s vault in [[Gringotts Wizarding Bank]].
=====Behind the Scenes=====
  * The term "alloy" is never used in the seven canonical books to describe [[goblin]]-made silver or any other magical metal. The entry is based on the material's function and properties, which align with the concept of a unique, blended substance.
  * The properties of [[goblin]]-made silver, particularly its ability to absorb powers that strengthen it, are thematically similar to legendary materials in other fantasy mythologies, such as //mithril// in J.R.R. Tolkien's works, which is also known for its extraordinary strength and beauty.
  * In the film adaptation of //Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows - Part 2//, [[Griphook]]'s final betrayal and attempt to take the sword is a dramatic and violent scene within the vaults of [[Gringotts]], highlighting the intensity of the ownership dispute. (film)