The Kyber crystals hold immense significance in the Star Wars series, surpassing the importance of other objects and artifacts. Though they may appear as modest crystals responsible for altering lightsaber color, the Kyber Crystals possess a profound narrative, intertwined with both the Jedi and the Sith.
The crystals in Star Wars are commonly acknowledged for their exceptional ability to connect and resonate with the Force, surpassing the essence of ordinary objects. In fact, they possess such an intrinsic connection that one might argue they possess a semblance of sentient existence. The absence of these influential and Force-sensitive crystals would deprive both the Jedi and Sith of their legendary weapons that transcend across the vastness of the galaxy.
How Are Kyber Crystals Used?
The Kyber Crystals, vital components of lightsabers, were relatively scarce, yet the Jedi managed to locate certain worlds where they could be easily found. For the purpose of instilling a sense of adventure and Jedi history, Younglings were sent to acquire their own crystal. Once in possession, the Younglings would incorporate the crystal into their personalized lightsaber, which would determine the color and shade of the blade. Fortunately, these resilient crystals were able to function as internal elements of lightsabers, enabling Jedi to wield the weapon even when subjected to extreme strain. Internally, the crystals had the capability to both channel and generate power, rendering them an ideal choice for lightsabers.
Although Kyber Crystals possess a potential value beyond lightsabers, attempts to create formidable weapons lacking the necessary Force connection have proven unsuccessful. Interestingly, the Sith initially struggled to comprehend and manipulate these crystals to suit their needs. For reasons yet to be fully understood, the crystals show a stronger affinity towards the Light Side of the Force, making it difficult for the Sith to employ them for their own malevolent purposes. Eventually, the Sith discovered that by imposing their dominant connection to the Force, they could overpower the crystals, causing them to "bleed" and resulting in the distinctive red hue of Sith lightsabers.
What Are The Different Kyber Crystals?
Although there are various distinct colors for lightsabers, it is crucial to acknowledge that a red Sith lightsaber has the potential to be reverted back to its original state. The specific color outcome after cleansing the crystals remains uncertain, as the primary reference for this occurrence in the Star Wars universe derives from the character Ahsoka Tano. Ahsoka successfully purged two corrupted lightsabers, resulting in their blades emitting a white radiance. However, it has been suggested that the color transformation may be influenced by the crystal's perception of Ahsoka's personality, indicating that not all saved crystals will necessarily adopt a white hue.
Unbelievably, an extensive inventory of diverse Kyber Crystals exists. Numerous crystals were designated according to the planets they originate from, but a selection of alternative objects can serve as substitutes for conventional Kyber Crystals. Additionally, certain crystals possess distinctive characteristics that slightly modify the standard lightsaber owing to the inherent properties of Kyber Crystals.
Some time ago, various beings started attempting to manufacture synthetic Kyber Crystals due to their numerous potential uses. However, the challenge with creating a synthetic version was that these crystals possessed a profound connection to the Force. Consequently, any effort to duplicate them would result in an extremely unstable outcome. These crystals were so volatile that they carried a significant risk of exploding, leading to their prohibition.
Additionally, there exist several crystals that exhibit more distinctive characteristics. These include Dragite Gems, Krayt Dragon Pearls, Lorridian Gemstones, and Obsidian. Dragite Gems and Lorridian Gemstones bear resemblance to standard Kyber Crystals but offer additional properties to lightsabers, such as generating shockwaves and enabling action prediction. Krayt Dragon Pearls, on the other hand, serve as condensed Kyber Crystals, granting lightsabers with formidable power and a resounding presence. Furthermore, Obsidian, the same material utilized in Darth Vader's fortress, has been utilized in lightsabers, although only after succumbing to corruption by the Dark Side of the Force.
The History Of Kyber Crystals
The Kyber Crystals have origins that are far from ordinary. Societies revered these stones long before the Jedi entered the scene. The crystals possessed exceptional intricacy and power even before they were utilized in lightsabers. This naturally led less technologically advanced civilizations to recognize the crystals' inherent connection to the Force.
In due course, the Jedi discovered these crystals and immediately integrated them into their culture. The crystals became a vital element of Jedi life due to their unmistakable harmony with the Force. Some civilizations began to question the Jedi's moral standing due to their fervent desire for the crystals. However, as always, the Jedi's intentions were focused on harnessing the stones for the greater good.
When the conflict between the Jedi and the Sith arose, the Sith began their pursuit of harnessing Kyber Crystals for destructive purposes. These issues would periodically arise due to the Sith's excessive ambition. The Sith continued their malicious utilization of the crystals during the construction of the Death Star, incorporating them into the devastating laser. Clearly, the Sith had no reservations about employing Force-attuned objects for destructive ends.
Kylo Ren's lightsaber represents one of the most recent instances of Kyber Crystal utilization. The distinctive design of his blade serves a purpose beyond mere merchandise appeal. It enables his lightsaber to emit more energy, thanks to the unstable nature of the crystal within. While Star Wars will undoubtedly continue to feature Kyber Crystals, fans will eagerly await the arrival of new Kyber-powered weapons that will serve either benevolent or malevolent purposes.
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