Luminous Stone Uses in Zelda: Armor, Trade, Dyeing, Fusion, and More

Unlock the Secrets of Luminous Stones: More Than Just Pretty Rocks in Zelda

Ever notice the glowing blue rocks in Hyrule and think, “What are Luminous Stones for?” If you’re confused, you are in the right spot. These stones are more than just pretty formations while dodging Bokoblins. Luminous Stones are versatile in both Breath of the Wild and Tears of the Kingdom. They serve many purposes from fashion to combat advantages. Let’s explore what makes them shine – in every way.

Shine Bright Like a Diamond (or at Least, Armor That Does)

A major use for Luminous Stones is crafting and upgrading armor, especially the Radiant Armor set. If you play Breath of the Wild and want a rave look, this set is for you. Gather nine Luminous Stones to buy the base set – Radiant Mask, Radiant Shirt, and Radiant Tights. You also need 2,400 Rupees for the whole ensemble from the shop. Think of it as your personal glowing knight brand.

The journey doesn’t end at purchase. You can upgrade this set for more defense. Go to a Great Fairy Fountain. They take more Luminous Stones (and some monster parts) to enhance your gear. Here’s a breakdown for upgrading to one-star:

• 1-star Upgrade (5 defense): 10 Luminous Stones, 1 Bokoblin Guts, and 10 Rupees. Reasonable for a starter boost.

Want more levels? Each upgrade needs more stones and unpleasant monster parts:

• Level 1 to Level 2: 5 Luminous Stones and 3 Bokoblin Guts.
• Level 2 to Level 3: 8 Luminous Stones and 3 Moblin Guts.
• Level 3 to Level 4: 10 Luminous Stones and 2 Molduga Guts.
• Level 4 to max: 20 Luminous Stones and 1 Lynel Guts.

What do you get? Beside a stylish look in the dark, the Radiant armor set has a “stal lure” effect. This means Stalkoblins, Stal Lizalfos, and Stal Moblins are more likely to join your party. This could be good or bad, depending on if you enjoy monster confrontations or want peace in Hyrule at night. If farming monster parts is your goal, see it as a feature.

The brief mentions upgrading the Awakening Armor set in Tears of the Kingdom, but doesn’t specify if Luminous Stones are involved in those upgrades. However, given their presence in armor enhancements in Breath of the Wild, it’s worth exploring as you dive into Hyrule’s latest story.

Trading Stones for Shiny Rewards: Diamonds and Gems Galore

Luminous Stones serve more than personal needs; they hold value in the Hylian economy, especially through trading. Remember Ledo in Zora’s Domain from Breath of the Wild? He has a quest called “Luminous Stone Gathering.” You find him busy with entrance repairs at Zora’s Domain, likely fussing about plumbing issues. Complete his quest—aptly named Luminous Stone Gathering—to unlock a trade. Bring him ten Luminous Stones, and he offers you not one, but two Diamonds! That’s a gem-flavored two-for-one deal. This exchange is repeatable, making it a great way to earn Diamonds if you share your glowing stones. Picture Link, counting out ten stones to Ledo, who is still stressed about fixing plumbing.

Now in Tears of the Kingdom, there’s another interesting trading chance involving… Dondons. Yes, those big, gentle creatures that look like a mix between a hippo and a boulder. Dondons love Luminous Stones. Feed them these glowing treats, and they’ll ‘produce’ gems. You might get Sapphires, Rubies, or even Diamonds if you are lucky. Each Dondon can take up to five stones at once. Is there a benefit to maxing their luminous stone intake? It’s still a mystery. Maybe they produce better quality gems when extra glowy? More Dondon-feeding tests are needed.

Dyeing to be Different: Navy Blue with a Hint of Luminous Glow?

For fashion-forward adventurers in Tears of the Kingdom, Luminous Stones provide another form of self-expression: dye. Visit the Hateno Dye Shop, and you’ll find Luminous Stones are the key to creating navy dye. Want to give your Hylian Hood a stylish blue facelift? Use Luminous Stones for it. It’s a subtle boast, really. “Oh, this? Just dyed it myself with glowing rocks.”

Weapon Fusion: Slap a Rock on It!

Tears of the Kingdom showcases weapon fusion, and naturally, Luminous Stones play a part. Fusing a Luminous Stone to your weapon gives a +1 attack power. While it won’t transform a twig into a beast-slaying machine, every little bit counts, right? Also, imagine the glow on your weapon! Perfect for those dramatic attacks against hordes of enemies. Who needs practicality with style?

Cash In Your Shine: Selling Luminous Stones for Rupees

If you care less about glowing armor and more about cold cash (or warm Rupees), you can sell Luminous Stones. Most merchants buy them for a decent 70 Rupees each. Need quick money for arrows or elixirs? Luminous Stones may be your best bet. If maximizing profit is key, find Dayfah. He pays a hefty 175 Rupees each. That’s over double the regular price! It pays to shop around or sell strategically. Even Beedle, the traveling merchant, will give the standard 70 Rupees, making Luminous Stones consistently sellable across Hyrule. So when near a Luminous Stone Deposit, think about mining for profit.

More Than Meets the Eye: Lore and Legacy

Beyond practical use, Luminous Stones hold symbolic meaning. They emit light in darkness, often seen as amulets of “brightness” and “hope.” This lore enriches them beyond crafting materials or trade items. They tie into quests like Luminous Stone Gathering, creating deeper ties to Hyrule’s story.

So next time you spot a Luminous Stone, remember: it’s not just a pretty rock. It’s potential armor, valuable trade goods, dye ingredients, weapon enhancements, and even a symbol of hope. Quite beneficial for something you can smash out of any cave wall.