According to Paracelcus, they move as easily through the earth as humans walk upon the ground. They cannot stand the light of the sun, for even one ray would turn them to stone. Some sources claim they spend the hours during daylight as a toad. They are in some way related to goblins and dwarfs.
Gnomes are Earth Elementals (earth spirits). They live and thrive underground and guard the earths treasures. They are fabulous craftsmen and especially good at making swords and armor.
Earth-elves are the spiritual power of nature and reflect the energy and cycle of the earth.