Yuhua Stone

The Yuhua stone (Chinese: 雨花石; pinyin: yuhua shi; lit.: 'rain flower stone') is a special kind of stone found in Nanjing, China, due to the unique geology of the area. Yuhua stones, or pebbles, are of sedimentary origin and consist of minerals including quartz and other silicates. They are found in the Yangtze River, polished smooth by the action of water.[1] Colors include red, rose, yellow, green, and white.[2]

Yuhua stones

Legend

The origin of the Yuhua Stone is told through the legend of a Chinese monk named Yunguang (雲光) who lived during the Liang dynasty. Yunguang used to travel around the country to deliver sermons. One day, He travelled to Nanjing, there, he sat on the Guanghua Gate for three days, talking about his concept, without eating or drinking. According to the legend, his sincerity moved God deeply, so God rained thousands of colourful flowers from the sky to reward him. When the flowers touched the ground, they turned into the Yuhua Stone.[3]

Description

The stone is known for its beautiful patterns, often imagined to look like animals or flowers.

Idiom

"Chinese: 天花乱坠; pinyin: TianHualuanZhui", means lots of flowers falling from the sky

References
  1. "雨花石形成分析 - 南京雨花石 - 中国雨花石网" [Stone formation analysis - Nanjing stone - Chinese stone Network]. Zgyhsw.com. Retrieved 2011-12-22.
  2. Xu Xiaomin, "Collector of Magic Pebbles". Shanghai Star, 11 January 2000.
  3. "雨花石传说——华夏文明——中国经济网" [Stone legends - Chinese Civilization - China Economic Net]. Cathay.ce.cn. Retrieved 2011-12-22.

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