Gemstone

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Gemstone is a planet in the Turais system. It is controlled by the Republic.
== Description ==
Gemstone is a hot and unpleasant world, mostly due to a smoggy atmosphere high in methane. Much of the surface is covered in rugged mountains, making ground transport very difficult. However, the powerful tectonic forces here have created rich deposits of diamonds, emeralds, and sapphires, which are mined for use in jewelry and certain electronic components.
Mining a tectonically active world is an insane project. Earthquakes cause frequent cave-ins, but the potential for riches draws miners here despite high mortality rates. Most miners are dirt poor as a result of being paid on commission for their finds, but they are full of stories of some distant acquaintance who became mind-bogglingly wealthy after striking a previously untapped gemstone deposit.
== Spaceport ==
The spaceport is perched on top of a peak in an older and more stable mountain range. The landing pads here are used both by starships and by the helicopters that bring cargo to and from the mines. Overhead, helicopters fly by carrying heavy loads dangling from cables. A few low concrete buildings serve as warehouses, and on the far end of the port, where an explosion would do the least damage if a sudden, severe earthquake struck, large steel tanks hold deuterium for refueling ships. Asphalt roads with flimsy guard rails connect the landing pads to the warehouses.
== Shipyard ==
None
== Outfitter ==
None
== Information ==
* Gemstone has a tribute value of 500 and is defended by large Militia fleets.
Category:Republic
Category:Planet