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)
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.
