History of Chemistry in Ancient and Medieval India, Incorporating the History of Hindu Chemistry by Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray c36.s7.1

c36.s7.1

Among the sixty-four branches of arts and sciences recognized in the ancient Kamasutra of Vatsayana* (5th century A D) occur the following: (a) testing of gold and the gems, (b) knowledge of the colouring of gems; as also knowledge of mines and quarries. Varahamihira (6th century A.D) in his Vrihat Samhita, as already stated, conveys much useful informations on the subject, and refers in his turn to experts who preceded him