Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v2.c44.s6.t1.2

v2.c44.s6.t1.2

*Rasārṇava* described a large number of equipment or apparatus, crucibles, furnace, etc. for processing of minerals, and metals. (Ray and Kaviratna, 1910, 1985) *Dolayantram* for example was an apparatus for steam-heating of suspended solids. Crucibles were made of different kinds of earth, iron-rust and burnt husks of paddy. Covered crucible resembled the nipple of a cow and were fitted with lids having raised heads. The flames were stated to be specifically coloured due to specific salts of copper, tin, lead, etc. (*RNV*, 49). The characteristic of molten pure metal in a crucible was described: