The Arkenstone, also famously known as the Heart of the Mountain, is a truly magnificent and wondrous jewel of immense significance, particularly to the Dwarves of the Lonely Mountain.
A Jewel of Unparalleled Splendor
Described as a "great and wondrous jewel," the Arkenstone stood out among all treasures, embodying the wealth and artistry of the Dwarves. Its radiant beauty and inherent value made it a symbol of the Dwarf-kingdom under the Lonely Mountain.
Key Characteristics and Origins
Here's a quick overview of the Arkenstone's defining attributes:
| Attribute | Description |
|---|---|
| Primary Name | The Arkenstone of Thráin |
| Alias | Heart of the Mountain |
| Nature | A great and wondrous jewel |
| Origin | Discovered beneath the Lonely Mountain |
| Discovery Era | During the reign of Thráin I |
| Craftsmanship | Shaped by the Dwarves |
| Notable Seeker | Thorin II (Oakenshield) |
Its Discovery and Shaping
The Arkenstone was first discovered deep within the mines beneath the Lonely Mountain during the reign of Thráin I, the founder of the Dwarf-kingdom under the mountain. While a natural marvel, it was also meticulously shaped by the Dwarves themselves, enhancing its inherent beauty and fitting it for its place as a central treasure.
Significance to Thorin II
Centuries after its discovery, the Arkenstone became a primary focus for Thorin II Oakenshield, a descendant of Thráin I and the rightful King Under the Mountain. Thorin ardently sought the jewel, not merely for its material value, but as a symbol of his heritage and the heart of his kingdom, a beacon to rally his people and reclaim their ancestral home. Its recovery was a crucial element of his quest to reclaim Erebor from the dragon Smaug.
