Shloka 16

Matsya Purana — The Cave-Sanctuary: Jewel-Lake

Devanagari script

सुरोरगवलक्षाणां स्फटिकस्य तथैव च गोमेदपित्तकानां च धूलीमरकतस्य च //

Transliteration

suroragavalakṣāṇāṃ sphaṭikasya tathaiva ca gomedapittakānāṃ ca dhūlīmarakatasya ca //

Translation

And likewise, the text sets forth the distinguishing characteristics of the sura-stone and the serpent-stone, of sphaṭika (crystal) as well, and also of the gomedaka and pīttaka gems, and of the so-called “dusty emerald” (dhūli-marakata).

Word by Word

• suraḥ: a gem/stone termed ‘sura’ (name-category)

• uragaḥ: serpent

• uraga-valakṣāṇām: of the distinguishing marks of the ‘uraga’ (serpent) gem/stone

• sphaṭikasya: of crystal/quartz

• tathā eva ca: and likewise

• gomedā: gomedaka (hessonite/garnet category)

• pīttakānām: of yellow-hued gems (pīttaka category)

• ca: and

• dhūlī-marakatasya: of the ‘dhūlī-marakata’ (dusty/impure emerald) category

• ca: and

Speaker

• Lord Matsya (in instruction to Vaivasvata Manu)

Entities Mentioned

• Matsya
• Vaivasvata Manu
• sphaṭika
• gomedaka
• marakata

Tags

• Matsya Purana Vastu Shastra tips
• Ratna-lakshana
• Gem classification
• Ritual materials
• Puranic technical vocabulary

FAQs

What does this verse reveal about the creation or dissolution (Pralaya)?

This verse does not discuss pralaya; it functions as a technical transition into describing gem categories and their identifying marks.

How does this verse relate to the duties of a King or Householder?

It supports dharmic governance and household practice by emphasizing correct identification and selection of valuable/auspicious materials—relevant for royal treasuries, donations, and procurement for temples or rites.

What is the architectural or ritual significance mentioned here?

It signals a Vastuvidya-aligned discussion of gemstones (crystal, gomedaka, emerald types) used as auspicious substances—often relevant to consecration, ornamentation, and selecting pure materials for sacred or prestigious works.