The Silmarillion

Fëanor wonders how to preserve “the light of the Trees, the glory of the Blessed Realm” (30) using the skills he has learned. He summons everything he knows and, in secret, makes the Silmarils. The Silmarils are three jewels; they appear to be unbreakable diamonds, made from a material that will only be known at the end of the world. Everyone is struck by the wonder of the Silmarils, and Melkor lusts after them. He begins a slow and devious plan to render apart the friendship of the Valar and the Elves by taking the Silmarils.

Melkor begins to spread rumors among the Elves about why the Valar brought them to Valinor; the Valar were jealous of the great kingdoms the Elves might make for themselves. At the time, the Elves knew nothing about the arrival of Men. Melkor reveals the existence of Men to the Noldor, who he says will take over the lands that rightfully belong to the Elves. Among the Elves, Melkor fosters resentment toward the Valar. Thus, the “peace of Valinor was poisoned” (30).

The Noldor whisper louder and louder about their distrust of the Valar.