Shloka 9
Vaidūrya (Cat’s-eye) Examination: Origin, Auspicious Marks, Imitations, and Valuation Measures
गिरिकाचशिशुपालौ काच स्फटिकाश्च धूमनिर्भिन्नाः / वैदूर्यमणेरेते विजातयः सन्निभाः सन्ति
girikācaśiśupālau kāca sphaṭikāśca dhūmanirbhinnāḥ / vaidūryamaṇerete vijātayaḥ sannibhāḥ santi
Mountain-glass, a pale childlike lustre, common glass, and crystal (sphaṭika) stained by smoke—these are inferior imitations that resemble the vaidūrya gem (cat’s-eye), yet are of another kind.
Lord Viṣṇu (in discourse to Garuḍa/Vinatā-putra)
Concept: Viveka (discrimination) between genuine and counterfeit based on kind (jāti) and marks (liṅga).
Vedantic Theme: Viveka-khyāti; distinguishing appearance (rūpa) from underlying reality (tattva).
Application: When assessing valuables or claims, test for authentic characteristics rather than relying on superficial similarity.
Primary Rasa: shanta
Secondary Rasa: adbhuta
Related Themes: Garuda Purana 1.73 (ratna-lakshana/vaidurya-pariksha context); Garuda Purana 1.72–1.74 (gem classification and valuation passages)
FAQs
This verse highlights that vaidūrya has specific identifying traits and that many common materials can mimic its appearance; correct identification is essential when using gems for auspicious purposes.
It warns that quartz-like mountain glass, ordinary glass, and smoky/clouded crystal can resemble vaidūrya, so one should avoid confusing look-alikes with the true gem.
When purchasing or wearing cat’s-eye for traditional purposes, verify authenticity (reputable source/testing) and avoid stones that are merely visually similar, such as glass or smoky crystal.