Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v1.c22.s4.1

v1.c22.s4.1

Marshall admits (chapter 30, p. 619) that although the art of granulation and filigree was a Western one, "it is certain that the art of incrusting jewellery and other objects with gems was of Eastern origin, and that it was rarely practised in the Mediterranean area before the conquests of Alexander opened up the Orient". The art originated in India itself. The Indian king Sopeithes (Saubhuti) is said to have worn golden sandals studded with jewels and to have carried a golden staff studded with beryls, (Q. Curtius, Hist. Alex IX.1.5) The pavilions of Indian kings are said to have been bejewelled. (Claudian, Stilicho 1, 158 — quoted by Marshall)