History of Technology in India, Vol. I: From Antiquity to c. 1200 A.D. v1.c34.7

v1.c34.7

Archaeological data about the jewellery of early Vedic period is somewhat scanty. However, there are stray references, gleaned through the hymns, which provide a vague idea of the jewels and jewellery of ancient period. The Vājasaneyi Saṃhitā (XXX) and the Taittirīya Brāhmaṇa (III.4) do present an account of various arts and crafts, which include workers in gold and so also the profession of jewellery (Apte, 1965). Similarly, there are references in Vedic literature regarding ornaments, such as the Pra-varta or ear-rings and a niṣka, probably a kaṇṭhī or a small necklace worn around the neck, jewels (mani) and conch-shells were also used as amulets during the period (Apte, 1965).