Gemstone dice sets represent a fascinating intersection of gaming, artistry, and the enduring appeal of natural gemstones. These unique dice, crafted from materials like Jasper, Opalite, Zircon glass, and Opal, are gaining popularity among role-playing game enthusiasts and collectors alike. Several of these gemstones also hold historical significance as birthstones, adding another layer of intrigue to these collectible items. This article will explore the materials used in these dice, their origins, properties, and the care required to maintain their beauty.
History and Lore
The use of dice dates back millennia, with archaeological evidence suggesting their existence as early as 3000 BC. However, the practice of crafting dice from gemstones is a relatively recent development, driven by the growing popularity of tabletop role-playing games and a desire for unique, aesthetically pleasing gaming accessories.
Kambaba Jasper, sourced from Madagascar and South Africa, is specifically noted as the historical birthstone for March. It is described as a “warm, harmonious and meditative stone,” and a “stone of peace and tranquility.” While the historical connection to birthstones is acknowledged, the primary appeal of these dice lies in the inherent beauty and perceived energy of the gemstones themselves.
Zircon glass dice are presented as representing each of the twelve birthstones, offering a colorful and personalized option for gifting or collecting. Topaz, a precious stone and the birthstone for November, is highlighted as a recent addition to the gemstone dice offerings of Level Up Dice, marking a shift towards using more valuable materials.
Geological Formation and Sources
The gemstones used in these dice originate from diverse geological settings around the world. Kambaba Jasper is specifically found in Madagascar and South Africa. Opalite, while often referred to as a stone, is actually a synthetic opalescent glass designed to resemble Opal. Natural Opal, used in some dice sets, is formed from silica-rich solutions that seep into cracks and cavities in rocks.
The sources emphasize the unique nature of each gemstone, noting that natural variations in color, opacity, and inclusions are inherent to the material. Level Up Dice specifically highlights their careful selection process to accommodate customer preferences, acknowledging that achieving a perfectly matched set of seven dice can be challenging due to these natural variations.
Gemological Properties
The gemological properties of the materials used in these dice vary significantly. Kambaba Jasper is a form of chalcedony, a microcrystalline variety of quartz. While a specific hardness isn’t provided, Jasper generally falls between 6.5 and 7 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Zircon glass, being a manufactured material, will have different properties than natural zircon. Opalite, being a glass, is relatively softer and more susceptible to scratching than true gemstones. Natural Opal’s hardness ranges from 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale.
The dice sets typically include the following pieces: a D4 (4-sided die), a D6 (6-sided die), a D8 (8-sided die), two D10s (10-sided dice – one numbered 00-90, the other 0-9), a D12 (12-sided die), and a D20 (20-sided die). The sizes of the dice vary, with common dimensions being 16mm and 18mm. The Baron of Dice sets feature sharp-edged dice, hand-polished from Natural Opal, and are 20mm in size.
A table summarizing the properties of the mentioned materials is provided below:
| Gemstone/Material | Origin | Hardness (Mohs) | Composition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kambaba Jasper | Madagascar, South Africa | 6.5-7 | Microcrystalline Quartz (Chalcedony) |
| Opalite | Synthetic | ~5.5 | Glass |
| Natural Opal | Various | 5.5-6.5 | Hydrated Silica |
| Zircon Glass | Manufactured | Varies | Glass |
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Kambaba Jasper is specifically described as a stone promoting peace, tranquility, and meditative states. While the sources do not delve deeply into the metaphysical properties of other gemstones used in the dice, the inherent symbolism associated with each stone likely contributes to their appeal. Opal, for example, is often associated with creativity, inspiration, and emotional healing. Topaz is linked to joy, generosity, and abundance.
The Sylvan Glyphic design featured on some Opalite dice sets evokes imagery of ancient forests, fairies, and magical vines, further enhancing the mystical and symbolic qualities of the dice.
Care and Cleaning
Due to the inherent fragility of gemstones and glass, careful handling and maintenance are essential. The sources consistently recommend rolling these dice on padded surfaces, such as dice trays, to prevent chipping or damage. It is also advised to avoid rolling them alongside heavier, sharp-edged metal dice.
Zircon glass dice are specifically noted to require gentle handling. The synthetic nature of Opalite makes it particularly susceptible to scratches, emphasizing the need for careful use and storage. While specific cleaning instructions are not provided, a soft cloth and mild soap and water are generally recommended for cleaning gemstones and glass.
Quality and Craftsmanship
The sources highlight the attention to detail and craftsmanship involved in creating these gemstone dice. Misty Mountain Gaming emphasizes hand-carving and polishing each die, followed by hand-painting the engraved designs. Level Up Dice focuses on careful dice selection to match customer preferences and exceptional customer service, with a dedicated “shipping goblin” ensuring personalized attention to each order. Baron of Dice emphasizes the hand-polished sharp corners of their Natural Opal dice, highlighting their unique aesthetic.
The lifetime warranty offered by Misty Mountain Gaming demonstrates a commitment to quality and customer satisfaction. Level Up Dice also provides a 30-day money-back guarantee.
Conclusion
Gemstone dice sets offer a unique and captivating blend of artistry, gaming, and the natural beauty of gemstones. From the tranquil energy of Kambaba Jasper to the luminous glow of Opalite and the precious allure of Topaz, these dice appeal to a diverse range of interests. While requiring careful handling due to their inherent fragility, these dice provide a tactile and visually stunning addition to any gaming collection. The growing popularity of these sets reflects a broader appreciation for natural materials, handcrafted artistry, and the enduring magic of gemstones.