Mountain dwarves are the most common and widely recognized subrace of dwarf, known for their sturdy, muscular builds. Standing between 4 and 5 feet tall, they are broad and heavy, with a weight often disproportionate to their height. Their skin is typically a ruddy brown or a deep tan, and their eyes are commonly brown or a dark shade of blue. Unlike other dwarf subraces, mountain dwarves have a full head of hair, with both males and females sporting long, thick hair that they often braid. Males are especially known for their long, bushy beards that they take great pride in cultivating and grooming.
Mountain dwarf names are typically short and guttural, reflecting the rough, hard sounds of their language. They are given a personal name at birth, followed by their clan name. The personal name is usually a simple, single word that is easy to pronounce, while the clan name is a long, complex name that signifies their clan’s history and accomplishments. This duality in their naming conventions reflects their society's blend of individualism and rigid clan structure.
Mountain dwarves are the descendants of the original dwarven people. Their history is one of great kingdoms built deep within the mountains. They are master miners, artisans, and builders, and their history is full of great feats of engineering, such as carving entire cities out of stone. They are a deeply traditional and isolationist people, and their history is filled with great wars and rivalries with other races, particularly giants and goblinoids.
Mountain dwarf society is a patriarchal, clan-based system where honor and tradition are paramount. They have a strong sense of community and a deep respect for their elders and ancestors. They are also known for their love of gold and jewels, which they hoard as a sign of their wealth and status. Their society is built on a rigid caste system, with each dwarf having a specific role to play. They revere a pantheon of gods, with a powerful god of forging and creation as their chief deity. Their religion is a solemn and serious affair, with a focus on ritual, tradition, and ancestor worship.