Place of origin:
Deserts of Inner Mongolia and Hami, Xinjiang
Mineral composition:
Quartz, agate, jasper, protein, chalcedony
Obtained in the provinces of Xinjiang, Inner Mongolia, and the Gobi desert of Ganxu, fengli are stones that have been naturally ground or worn down by the action of wind and sand or subsurface heat. They are usually less than 20 centimeters across. Their diverse shapes are due in part to their size: smaller stones are more likely to be subjected to the action of these natural forces. They may be composed of agate, jade, opal, quartz, or crystal, and the differences in their mineral content account for their variety of color. Fengli are usually white, grey, red, or brown. Beautifully shaped, they are admired for their variety and striking texture.