{{Item navbox|{{runes}}}}'''Runes ''' are small objects that, like [[gems ]] and [[jewels]], have no function until they are socketed into an item. See a [[Runes Scarcity|full runes listing]]. Runes can be upgraded; 2 or 3 of one type, plus a particular gem type/quality, can be combined in the [[Horadric Cube]] to upgrade to the next higher level rune. Runes add different properties to shields [[shield]]s or [[armor ]] vs. weapons[[weapon]]s, and sometimes shields and armor differ as well. Runes are most powerful when combined into special [[Runewordsrunewords]], so be sure you check the recipes for those.