Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v2.c46.s2.4

v2.c46.s2.4

Kauṭilya referred to the scientific approach of categorisation of gems according to colour. The *Ratnaśāstra* texts brought in the useful criteria of relative hardness, specific gravity and optical properties towards the identification of gems. The reference to *rasapāka* in Kauṭilya shows that *rasaśāstra* studies had been initiated during his time to transform matter to useful varieties. Alchemy gradually evolved from the sustained efforts of Caraka, Suśruta, Patañjali and Nāgārjuna.