A
curious Hindu treatise on gems has been preserved for us in the
Brhatsamhitä of Varâhamihira (505-587 A.D.). It is the earliest work of
this kind that we have in Sanskrit, and M. Louis Finot,1 who
has published it, together with several other similar treatises,
believes that it was based upon an original composed at a much earlier
period. In his introduction M. Finot says : "It would be an error to
regard the ratnaçastra [treatise on gems] as a simple manual for the
use of jewelers. Without doubt this subject formed one of the
principal branches of commercial instruction, . . . but it was also
taught to princes and it is for their use that the ratnaçastras we
publish seem to have been composed."
This
treatise only describes four gems, although a larger number are
enumerated. These gems are the diamond, the pearl, the ruby, and the
emerald. One of the most interesting portions is that treating of the
valuation of pearls. The system described is peculiar, and,
unfortunately, there is some difficulty in finding an absolutely
correct equivalent for the values expressed.
A
price is first placed upon a pearl weighing 4 mâsakas (about 45
grains). This is estimated at 5300 kârsâpanas (about $1600). As the
weight diminishes the valuation decreases as follows :
