The palantíri (singular palantír), also known as the Seven Seeing-stones, or the Seven Stones (numbered for those in Middle-earth), were spherical glass-like or translucent stone objects used for communication and intelligence gathering. There were eight distinguished ones in total, with seven in Middle-earth.

A palantír ([paˈlanˌtiːr]; pl. palantíri) is one of several indestructible crystal balls from J. R. R. Tolkien 's epic-fantasy novel The Lord of the Rings. The word comes from Quenya palan 'far', and tir 'watch over'. [T 1] The palantírs were used for communication and to see events in other parts of Arda, or in the past.

Dec 7, 2024 · The palantíri (sometimes translated as "Seeing Stones") were stones that could be used in communication with one another, and also to see many things across the face of the world. When its master looked in it, they could communicate with other Stones and anyone who might be looking into them.

Mar 24, 2025 · Overall, the palantíri may be a small part of Tolkien's lore, but they are a crucial one. The disappearance of three of them arguably began the decline of Arnor and Gondor as they could no longer...

Since it was first revealed that Saruman was using a palantír in The Lord of the Rings, fans have wondered where these seeing stones came from and where they...

Mar 26, 2025 · When Númenor fell due to its defiance, the palantíri were brought to Middle-earth. The great kingdoms of Arnor and Gondor placed them in important cities. These stones helped them build strong nations by allowing leaders to communicate across vast distances.

Sep 13, 2024 · In The Lord of the Rings, the palantíri were "the seven Seeing Stones brought by Elendil and his sons from Númenor; made by Fëanor in Aman, " as succinctly put by The …

Aug 31, 2024 · The Palantiri were dangerous and powerful artifacts in The Lord of the Rings and Rings of Power, but what are these items and how do they work?

Apr 10, 2021 · JRR Tolkien's Middle-earth is filled with all sorts of strange items, including the palantiri, or Seeing Stones. Here's why they are so important.

Jun 8, 2020 · In Quenya, the term means 'far-seeing' or 'watch over.' It refers to a durable crystal ball used to communicate and see events occurring in other parts of Arda, whether past or future. There were eight distinguished palantíri in total. As per The Silmarillion, the Elves of Valinor made the palantíri in the First Age.