INSPIRED BY NATURE
Viewing stone appreciation is inspired by natural geological features, biological entities—people, animals, plants—and less so by artifacts—boats, huts, bridges. In this new section, we will be featuring unusual geological and biological elements that can or have influenced the collection of an unusual rock to view for its aesthetic qualities. We want you to look to nature for guidance to the types of rocks to add to your collection.
Heaven’s Gate, the world’s highest natural arch, is located in the Tianmen Mountains in Hunan Province in south-central China. This arch is over 130 meters high, 57 meters wide, and about 60 meters deep. According to Chinese historical records, this high mountain passageway was formed in 263 CE when a major part of a limestone cliff collapsed. This arch plays a major role in Daoism as it represents one of the major gateways to Heaven in Daoist beliefs.
Chinese Lingbi Stone
This Chinese Lingbi stone was given the poetic name “Heaven’s Gate” because of its resemblance to the natural occurring Heaven’s Gate Arch. Are there such gateways to Heaven in this world? Without its base, this stone is 13.5 cm wide, 30 cm high, and 8 cm deep.
