History of Chemistry in Ancient and Medieval India, Incorporating the History of Hindu Chemistry by Acharya Prafulla Chandra Ray c36.s7.5

c36.s7.5

1. *Relative Weight.*—The principle of Archimedes being evidently unknown among the Hindus, the measurement of volume could only be roughly approximate Thus it is stated that a stone may be of the same species as, and equal in volume to, a *padmaraga* (oriental ruby), but will differ in weight from the latter. Empirical and arbitrary scales of weight were adopted as standards. A ruby occupying the volume of a *gunja* (*Abrus precatorius*) may be equal in weight to 10, 7 and 3 *gunjas* respectively. In each case the gem which is of greater weight is superior in quality, and the value thereof is enhanced in proportion.