The pyramid form consists of four triangular sides, erected upon a square base, and meeting in a pyramidion (capstone) at the apex. The pyramid's core was constructed of granite blocks (Old Kingdom) or mud brick (Middle Kingdom), and faced with smooth white limestone. The pyramidion was covered in thin gold or electrum (an alloy of gold and silver). The whole construction would shine blindingly in the brilliant Egyptian daylight, in imitation of the rays of the sun itself, shining down from heaven. In this way, the pyramid provided a magical staircase by which the spirit of Pharaoh could ascend to the sky and join his father Re (the sun) in his daily journey across the heavens.
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