Where Are the Aetherium Shards Skyrim Locations and Quest Guide

Embarking on the quest for ancient Dwemer secrets is one of the most rewarding adventures available within the Dawnguard expansion of Skyrim. Finding the unique glowing fragments allows players to access a hidden forge capable of crafting incredible legendary gear. This guide outlines the exact coordinates and strategies required to locate every piece and successfully complete your subterranean expedition.

How to Initiate the Lost to the Ages Quest

Your journey begins by uncovering clues regarding an ancient, forgotten forge buried beneath the mountains. To officially start tracking the components, players must travel to Arkngthamz and speak with the spirit of Katria, a doomed adventurer. Alternatively, reading a copy of the book titled The Aetherium Wars will add the initial investigative markers directly to your world map.

Once inside the initial ruin, you must navigate through hazardous kinetic traps and falmer infestations to secure the first piece. Katria will offer to guide you through the remaining sites, acting as a valuable companion during the upcoming battles. Managing your gear before entering these deep caverns ensures you can handle the heavy mechanical constructs guarding the prizes.

Tracking Down the Scattered Shards

The remaining fragments are hidden across various remote corners of the province, requiring careful exploration to uncover. One piece is located at the top of a scenic waterfall near Bthalft, resting safely on an outdoor Dwemer pedestal. Another artifact resides within the deep vaults of Raldbthar, tucked behind a series of complex gear mechanisms that must be cleared of debris.

The final component can be discovered near the northern coastline at the ruins of Deep Folk Crossing. You do not need to delve deep underground for this specific fragment, as it rests on an altar across the bridge. Gathering all these items requires a solid understanding of the local geography and readiness to face sudden dwarven automaton ambushes.

Accessing the Hidden Aetherium Forge

With all four pieces securely in your inventory, you must return to the Ruins of Bthalft to combine them. Placing the fragments into the outdoor mechanism recreates the original crest and reveals a massive elevator shaft descending into the earth. This sub-level houses the forge itself, a magnificent chamber fueled by pure molten lava and ancient magic.

Before you can use the facility, you must defeat the Guardian of the Forge, a massive steam centurion capable of dealing devastating fire damage. Utilizing frost spells or shock weapons helps neutralize its defenses while keeping your distance from the dangerous lava flows. Once the arena is safe, you can finally interact with the terminal to craft your choice of a legendary crown, shield, or staff.