gems, history of gemology, beads, India, Indian lapidary

Detailed discussion of lapidary industry using amethyst and citrine (natural and heat-treated) in ancient India producing centers; discussion pre-dates the seminal archaeology at Arikamedu under the direction of Vimala Begeley, and deputy site archaeologist Steven Sidebotham. A comparison of the amethyst and citrine beadmaking processes in South India at Kotalingala (Andhra Pradesh) and Arikamedu (Pondicherry) over the last four centuries B.C.