Gnomes are similar to dwarves in some respects as well as elves, yet they are a unique and very distinct race. They average 3' to 3.5' tall and are slightly built. Male gnomes have beards as do male dwarves but unlike the dwarf, the male gnome keeps his trimmed short. Gnomes are the diminuative creatures that dwell among the hills and forests, deserts and burrows. Known in their language as the Norri, or Stunted Folk, they sometimes call themselves the 'Keepers of the Firmament' as they help guard and protect many of the world's varied ecosystems.
Gnomes in general are a jovial people that delight in humor, music and merry making. They are rather small when compared to humans but the gnomes attribute this lesser height to their fondness of the earth and a greater desire to be physically closer to the land. A great number of them are drawn to the bard class though gnomes are also quite ingenious and inventive by nature. They are often credited with having designed and built the first windmill and the first waterwheel in an effort to harness the power of nature.
According to Norrian mythology, the gnomes were created during the Dawning Age by their greatest deity, Gnarda the Gnomefather. Gnarda used many of the basic elements of the earth for his creation and so the hill gnomes were crafted from clay and stone. Forest gnomes were formed from bark and soil. Tinker gnomes were fashioned from iron and quartz and the dune gnomes from dust and sand. It is from this origin that the gnomes consider themselves close to both the earth above and the earth below, allowing them to bridge the gaps between the two. The first of their kind were also said to have received the original heartstones, magical gems bestowed upon them by their goddess Berylie. Gnomes of today still regard the gems with great reverence and often use them as wedding gifts or holy symbols.
Hill Gnome- As per the Dungeons & Dragons Players Handbook ver. 3.5. This is the most commonly encountered gnome race. They generally dwell in hilly regions and are often skilled miners and jewel-smiths.
Forest Gnome- The forest gnome is a shy and somewhat reclusive variety of gnome that prefers living among forests and woodlands. They often befriend the local animals and help them whenever they can. They are slightly smaller than the hill gnome variety and tend to have tan to light brown skin with blonde, chestnut or brown hair with light eyes.
Dune Gnome- This rare variety of gnome is a desert dweller though a few clans have been known to inhabit large sandy beaches as well. They have light brown complexions with brown hair and dark eyes. Their coloration aids in their ability to blend into their surroundings and hide from their enemies. They are quite aggressive if threatened and almost warlike if the clan faces some danger.
Blight Gnome- This degenerate race of gnome is known for its evil nature and hateful tendencies. They are all fallen gnomes that worship the evil gnome god Maledrik. They appear similar to hill gnomes except that they are more withered and gnarled in appearance making them appear much older than they may actually be. Blight gnomes dwell in out-of-the-way places or in desolate land. Their prefered environment are dead forests.