Minerals and Metals in Ancient India v2.c47.188

v2.c47.188

The occurrence of *Vaikranta* is described in the *Rasa-ratna-samuccaya* along with its varieties. It is said to be a semi-precious stone, and is often confused with the diamond. It is formed from the essence of the eight metals, and is found in the same mines as the diamond. This is found in narrow seams or in regular patches in the mines associated with diamonds. A variety of *Vaikranta* is also mentioned in the *Rasa-ratna-samuccaya* as being of the colour of the *Japa* flower.