
I noticed a prominence of magic or high energy crystals in fantasy and sci-fi.
Whether it be the magic glowing crystal of [insert whatever magic system] or high power crystals used to power advanced machines, people like using powerful crystals, to the point where I almost can't think of an alternative. An example that immediately comes to mind is Code Geass' sakuradite and The Legend of Zelda's time shift stones. Speaking of which, I originally searched "time crystals" looking for the second example and learned about real life "time crystals". Even when I considered what magitech would look like, I also imagined crystals used in circuits to augment abilities of machines like computers and robots, somewhat inspired by real life quartz clocks. I wasn't able to think of any alternatives unless it was an enchanted metal or something, and it feels kind of cliché to me. Has anyone else noticed how prominent crystals are? Are you also using crystals like this, or did you go another way? Did you see any alternatives you saw and liked in stories?