Question 1

What is हीरक (Diamond)?

Accepted Answer

Hīra (Diamond), also known as *vajra* (वज्र), *indramani* (इंद्रमणि), and *vajramani* (वज्रमणि) in Sanskrit, is a gemstone composed of crystalline carbon. Possessing a Mohs hardness of 10, a refractive index of 2.42, and a density of 3.51 g/cm³, it is renowned for its exceptional hardness and brilliance. Historically, diamonds were sourced from mines in regions like Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, notably the Golconda mines, famed for producing diamonds of exceptional clarity [2].

During the medieval period, particularly under dynasties like the Vijayanagara Dynasty (14th-16th centuries CE), *hīra* was utilized as a gemstone in jewelry, for idol adornment, and as a decorative element in architecture. Its abrasive properties, reflected in names like *bhittibhedaka* (भित्तिभेदक - wall piercer), were employed in stone cutting [1]. Conservation efforts at heritage sites require specialized techniques to preserve diamond inlays and settings. The high thermal conductivity (1000-2600 W/m·K) of *hīra* also influences its interaction with surrounding materials in architectural contexts.

Question 2

What type of material is हीरक (Diamond)?

Accepted Answer

हीरक (Diamond) is classified as Gemstone, Abrasive. Key properties include Mohs hardness: 10, Refractive index: 2.42, Density: 3.51 g/cm³.

Question 3

Where is हीरक (Diamond) used?

Accepted Answer

हीरक (Diamond) is commonly used in Andhra Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh. It is sourced from Golconda mines, Panna mines.

Question 4

How is हीरक (Diamond) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

हीरक (Diamond) is used for Gemstone in Jewelry, Abrasive in Stone Cutting, Idol Adornment, Decorative Element in Architecture in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for हीरक (Diamond)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of हीरक (Diamond) requires attention to Susceptible to scratching by other diamonds and Requires careful handling to prevent damage. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	हीरक (Diamond) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Hīraka Diamond 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	Hīra (Diamond), also known as vajra (वज्र), indramani (इंद्रमणि), and vajramani (वज्रमणि) in Sanskrit, is a gemstone composed of crystalline carbon. Possessing a Mohs hardness of 10, a refractive index of 2.42, and a density of 3.51 g/cm³, it is renowned for its exceptional hardness and brilliance. Historically, diamonds were sourced from mines in regions like Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh, notably the Golconda mines, famed for producing diamonds of exceptional clarity [2]. During the medieval period, particularly under dynasties like the Vijayanagara Dynasty (14th-16th centuries CE), hīra was utilized as a gemstone in jewelry, for idol adornment, and as a decorative element in architecture. Its abrasive properties, reflected in names like bhittibhedaka (भित्तिभेदक - wall piercer), were employed in stone cutting [1]. Conservation efforts at heritage sites require specialized techniques to preserve diamond inlays and settings. The high thermal conductivity (1000-2600 W/m·K) of hīra also influences its interaction with surrounding materials in architectural contexts.
Also Known As	Diamond Hīraka Diamond Gem Diamond Industrial Diamond Adamant वज्र इंद्रमणि कुलिश अशनि भित्तिभेदक कठोरतम रत्न वज्रमणि
Tags	हीर Hira Diamond Gemstone Golconda Abrasive Precious Stone
Material ID	`INHFMAT-678381658-20-11-25-HD`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/diamond
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/diamond`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	1
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Medieval Period 14th Century CE 15th Century CE 16th Century CE
Dynasties	Vijayanagara Dynasty

हीरक (Diamond)

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Heritage Sites (1)

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