WhatsInTCM

Huaruishi (Granular dense aggregate, grayish-white, with an uneven surface and angular edges)

【Naming】

Huaruishi

 【Source】

Jiayou (嘉祐, a reign era of the Song Dynasty)

 【Frequency of Use】

E

 【Botanical Source】

A type of marble containing serpentine, mainly composed of carbonate components.

 【Properties】

It occurs as irregular lumps of varying sizes. Grayish-white in color, interspersed with pale yellow or yellowish-green halos. The surface is uneven with angular edges, and it has a sparkling, star-like luster when exposed to light. It is heavy, hard in texture, and has an irregular fracture surface. Odorless and tasteless.
Calcined Huaruishi: Presents as irregular small lumps, approximately 5mm in size, grayish-white in color, and relatively loose in texture.

 【Identification】

《Collection of Empirical Formulas》: “Huaruishi is genuine if it has white speckles when opened.” 《New Compilation of Effective Prescriptions》: “Huaruishi from Shaanxi Province is the best.”
That interspersed with yellowish-green mottling is considered superior. This product exhibits various reactions of carbonates and calcium salts.

 【Identification Terminology】

1. Halo (Modern): Refers to the off-white or yellowish-white surface of Huaruishi, with yellow and yellowish-green patterns interspersed, resembling a “halo”. When observed under light, a sparkling, star-like luster can be seen.

 【Category】

Minerals