Zhen'an Danma Stone

Zhen'an Danma Stone

　　Zhen'an Danma Stone

　　Zhen'an produces a unique type of stone that is particularly beautiful. Enthusiasts of unusual stones invited experts to conduct geological appraisals, and it was identified as Danma Stone. Research revealed that Danma Stone originally came from Danma Township in Qinghai Province, hence its name. At the Second Xi'an International Stone Expo, Zhen'an Danma Stones swept the gold, silver, and bronze awards, causing quite a stir. What makes Zhen'an Danma Stone so special?

　　First, its shapes are wildly diverse, full of natural charm. Zhen'an Danma Stones are typically found in nest-like clusters but form as independent blocks. Many Danma Stones require no polishing—once cleaned, they become exquisite natural "artworks." Some resemble birds or beasts, others human figures or various objects, each stone a world unto itself, each scene a poem. With their rich variety of forms, ever-changing shapes, and vividly realistic effects—untouched by human hands—they are treasures of nature’s craftsmanship. One piece in my collection, “Chick,” features round, expressive eyes, a pointed beak, and a plump form that is truly endearing. Another, “Great Auspiciousness” by fellow collector Ji Dayin, and “Piled Gold and Silver,” both won gold awards at an exhibition, earning widespread praise. These Danma Stones require no processing at all—all are premium pieces, some even rare or extraordinary masterpieces.

　　Second, they boast a rich palette of colors that shine brilliantly. Zhen'an Danma Stones primarily feature dark tea-brown as their base color, occasionally light beige, accented with white, yellow, light yellow, brownish-red, dark red, deep brown, and light brown. This creates patterns with distinct layers, strong contrast, and vibrant hues. One piece in collector Wen Zhenwu's collection, “Spring River in Warmth,” displays a stunning multi-colored “flower” composed of white, red, yellow, and brown on a black limy rock. Formed through the symbiosis of Danma Stone and the host rock, its unique shape makes it especially eye-catching. A piece I own, “Fire Trees and Silver Flowers Illuminate the Night,” features “fire trees and silver flowers” in white, light yellow, and light red that seem to burst upward, set against a backdrop of dark brown patterns. It magically captures the splendor of a fireworks display, leaving an unforgettable impression.

　　Third, they have a jade-like texture, exuding luxury and grandeur. Zhen'an Danma Stones generally exhibit a jade-like quality, with some even displaying an agate-like texture. Especially for those with distinct shapes, each stone has its own color and form—some light brown, some light yellow, some light white—all crystal-clear and perfectly smooth. My collection includes a set called “Smooth Sailing,” all in rich brown jade, truly adorable.

　　Fourth, they feature rich patterns and uniquely striking designs. This is a standout feature of Zhen'an Danma Stones and a key reason for their widespread acclaim. The stone’s patterns come in two main types: one consists of striped or banded textures, appearing on standalone, unpolished stones. These consist of curved, undulating, layered, and varying-thickness lines that flow like clouds or water—lush, smooth, transparent, natural, and authentic—showcasing the grace and rhythm of curves. The other pattern is Zhen'an Danma Stone’s “trump card”: many resemble a “peacock fanning its tail,” with rows, layers, and lines radiating outward, leaving viewers in awe. Some of these “peacock tail” patterns appear directly on the stone’s surface without polishing, incredibly lifelike and vivid. Others only need slight polishing to reveal the full “peacock tail” effect, dazzling the eye—so much so that some collectors suggest Zhen'an Danma Stone should simply be called “Peacock Stone.” Yet another type of pattern resembles floral brocades, with blooms and clusters like peonies or roses unfurling layer by layer from the center. Descriptions like “a profusion of blossoms,” “layers of blooming flowers,” or “flowers in full bloom” hardly do it justice. These patterns are fully displayed on polished stones, with a rich variety of hues covering the entire surface—poetic, dreamlike, and breathtakingly beautiful. Truly, “if flowers could speak, they’d be too much; but stones, though silent, are utterly charming.”