The Antiquities of Orissa v1.c10.320.4

v1.c10.320.4

There is considerable variety in the patterns of these *śaṅkha* bracelets, from the rude broad flat ring to the thin delicate annulet, rounded, or with notched or beaded edges, carved with tigers' heads, enriched with ornamental incising, and illuminated by touches of tinsel, lac-colour, gilding, &c". It should be noticed, however, that those bracelets which are made of entire pieces or annulets cut out of the shell, require the last named species, which from its size yields rings just large enough for the human wrist. The first two varieties are too large for such annulets, and their chips and cuttings are therefore used only in inlaying. Their superior density and gloss adapt them well for this purpose. It should be borne in mind, also, that the different species vary greatly in size according to age, and it is often difficult to identify them in the dry state.