75 - On the test of Gems - Karkelana

Suta said: 

1. The wind in his delight gathered together the nails of the king of demons Bala and scattered them amid clusters of lotuses. Thereafter, Karketana1 which is prized very much in the world cropped up.

1. What sort of gem it might be is not clear.

2. The best variety of Karketana has the copper colour of blood, the yellowish tinge of the moon, and burning fiery brilliance of honey. The other variety of rough surface bluish white in colour is not approved of since it brings about evils such as sickness, etc. 

3. Those Karketanas are very auspicious which are glossy, pure, of uniform reddish hue, of yellowish tinge, heavy, of diverse colours and free from defects, such as Trása, cracks, snakelike scratches, etc. 

4. If, when it is set in an ornament of gold, it sheda brilliant rays as if heated in fire, Karketana removes sickness, dispels Kali defects and is conducive to longevity, flourishing family and general happiness. 

5. Those who wear Karketana of auspicious and com mendable virtues for the sake of embellishments are highly honoured, rich, surrounded by many kinsmen and they prosper always enjoying all kinds of happiness. 

6. Some spurious Karketana gems of distorted untied aspect and pale blue colour and affected by pale red hue appear to have the shape of the genuine Karketana though devoid of brilliance and colourful effect. 

7. If Karketana is scrupulously tested for its colour and features and found to be bright and brilliant like the rising sun, it is to be priced in accordance with its greatness. The price is based on weight, as expounded by experts in Gem-literature.