Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v1.c20.s4.4

v1.c20.s4.4

A large quantity of pieces of deep red hematite and light red limonite was found on the site. It is possible that the surface limonite deposits in the nearby area (one 2 km south, the other 2 km east of the site) were exploited, and this material (Fe₂O₃, n H₂O) containing 43-45 per cent Fe₂O₃ was roasted to partially remove the water of hydration and produce the deep red variety of hematite containing half the amount of water (LOI 8.1%) and 52.5 per cent Fe₂O₃.