Elements of Hindu Iconography v1.c7.24

v1.c7.24

famous in India for its deposits of *śalagrāmas*. Each of these has a hole, through which are visible several interior spiral grooves resembling the representation of the *chakra* or discus of Viṣṇu; and these are in fact considered by the people to be the naturally produced representations of the discus of Viṣṇu. The *śalagrāma* is in consequence looked upon as a representative of Viṣṇu. Remarkable virtues are attributed to it and fabulous prices are often offered to some particular specimens of it. There are treatises on the subject of the examination and evaluation of *śalagrāmas*; and there are also, here and there, a few experts to be found even in these days for estimating their value. The number as well as the disposition of the spirals visible through the holes is utilised in ascertaining which of the many aspects and *avatāras* of Viṣṇu a given specimen represents and what the value of it is to the worshipper.∗ The *Varāha-purāṇa* states that YANTRAS.