1. a hard dark stone such as basanite used to test the purity of gold or other precious metals by the color of the streak produced when rubbed on it; 2. (figurative) a standard or reliable test used to determine the quality, genuineness, or value of something

Literally meaning metal and stone are opened; describes how absolute sincerity or a strong will can move hearts and overcome any difficulty; usually used in the set phrase [[精诚所至，金石为开|精誠所至，金石為開|jing1 cheng2 suo3 zhi4 jin1 shi2 wei4 kai1]].

a deep-blue metamorphic rock used as a semi-precious stone; lapis lazuli

(idiom) precious advice or priceless teachings

musical instruments made of various materials, such as metal, stone, silk, and bamboo; often used to refer to traditional Chinese music or instruments in general

to have a sound like metal or stone hitting the ground; describes a piece of writing or a speech that is forceful, resounding, and eloquent

a close and intimate friendship that is as firm and enduring as metal and stone

No difficulty is insurmountable if one is truly sincere; absolute sincerity can pierce through metal and stone (literal meaning: even metal and stone will yield to the power of sincerity).

the clanging or ringing sound produced by ancient metal and stone musical instruments, such as bells and chimes

The study of inscriptions on ancient metal and stone artifacts, such as bronzes and stone tablets; a precursor to modern Chinese archaeology.

Copper Age; the archaeological period characterized by the coexistence of stone tools and copper metalwork

A profound and lasting friendship as strong and firm as metal and stone.

No difficulty is insurmountable if one is sincere; literally, metal and stone will open when sincerity is applied

a translucent quartz or feldspar containing small inclusions of other minerals that produce a shimmering effect

a mythical substance or stone capable of turning base metals into gold