Dwarves

Dwarves are short creatures of a height around 1 metre 50 at maximum. However, they will never be smaller than 1 metre when fully grown. Like elves they originate from Germanic and Scandinavian mythology. Through Germanic and Viking influences they came to the British isles, although not becoming quite as popular in English mythology as Germanic or Viking.
Dwarves usually live for around 500 years, becoming adults at around 150. Unlike the elves they do not marry until the age of 200, sometimes as late as 400 years. They have several children in their lifetime, up to around 10.
Dwarves are famed for their stone and metal work. They create beautiful items of gold, iron, and rock. For hundreds of years if you wanted a suit of armour, a new crown, or a ring, you came to the dwarves. Weapons such as axes and swords were also made by the dwarves.
The dwarves themselves mainly used axes in battle, which unlike the elves they did a lot. Many dwarves considered battle the ultimate proof of their bravery and strength. However, the dwarvish culture is not built around war. They live in caves deep in the mountains where they can mine and do metalwork in peace.
Dwarves are very mischievous in character, often pranking passers by. Although, they can also be very kind and have often helped human heroes with weapons and tactical advice. They are also very wise, growing to be of a greater age allows them to gain a larger variety of experiences.
For more information visit the following sites:

•  http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dwarf_%28Germanic_mythology%29
• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Norse_Dwarves
• http://www.viking-mythology.com/dwarfs.html