These vials are a mixture of magically enhanced powdered gemstones. Its state appears to be unstable after being removed from its apparatus, and it will completely deteriorate within the course of a few weeks, rendering the powder to nothing more but ash.
The powder may augment a spell that is cast. When held in one hand, the vial may be (safely) broken, absorbing the powder into the spell, and is treated as an additional
material component. Spells affected in this manner apply the special metamagic effect
"Overriding Spell". If this modifies a mind-affecting spell targeting a mindless construct, the spell is treated as having +2CL for all calculations (Spell Penetration, Save DC's, etc).
Alternitavely, the powder in these vials can be used as a alchemical crafting component. Items made in this manner are permanent as per the standard potion creation rules.