Question 1

What is चाँदी (Silver)?

Accepted Answer

रजत (Rajata), also known as रूपा (Rupa) or सौध (Saudha) [1], is elemental silver (Ag), a precious metal historically significant in Indic heritage architecture. Its high density (10.49 g/cm³) and melting point (961.8°C) contribute to its workability. Sourced from mines across Rajasthan and the Himalayan region, रजत was utilized extensively during the Maurya, Gupta, Vijayanagara, and Mughal dynasties for decorative elements, inlay work (tarakaasi), and idol ornamentation. Its high electrical (6.3 x 10⁷ S/m) and thermal conductivity (429 W/mK) are less relevant to its architectural use, which focuses on reflectivity and aesthetic value. Traditional processing involved smelting and hammering. Durability is affected by tarnishing due to sulfur compound reactions, necessitating conservation efforts. Conservation of रजत in heritage sites requires specialized cleaning methods to remove tarnish without damaging the underlying metal. Alloyed with copper to improve strength, its use is documented in vessels, statues, and ritual objects. [2] [3]

Question 2

What type of material is चाँदी (Silver)?

Accepted Answer

चाँदी (Silver) is classified as Precious Metal, Native Element. Key properties include Density: 10.49 g/cm³, Melting Point: 961.8°C, High Electrical Conductivity: 6.3 x 10⁷ S/m.

Question 3

Where is चाँदी (Silver) used?

Accepted Answer

चाँदी (Silver) is commonly used in Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Himalayan Region, India. It is sourced from Zawar Mines, Rajasthan, Agucha Mines, Rajasthan, Kolar Gold Fields, Karnataka.

Question 4

How is चाँदी (Silver) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

चाँदी (Silver) is used for Decorative Elements, Inlay Work, Plating, Idol Ornamentation, Vessels, Statues, Ritual Objects in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for चाँदी (Silver)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of चाँदी (Silver) requires attention to Susceptible to Tarnishing and Requires Regular Cleaning. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	चाँदी (Silver) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Chā̃dī Silver 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	रजत (Rajata), also known as रूपा (Rupa) or सौध (Saudha) [1], is elemental silver (Ag), a precious metal historically significant in Indic heritage architecture. Its high density (10.49 g/cm³) and melting point (961.8°C) contribute to its workability. Sourced from mines across Rajasthan and the Himalayan region, रजत was utilized extensively during the Maurya, Gupta, Vijayanagara, and Mughal dynasties for decorative elements, inlay work (tarakaasi), and idol ornamentation. Its high electrical (6.3 x 10⁷ S/m) and thermal conductivity (429 W/mK) are less relevant to its architectural use, which focuses on reflectivity and aesthetic value. Traditional processing involved smelting and hammering. Durability is affected by tarnishing due to sulfur compound reactions, necessitating conservation efforts. Conservation of रजत in heritage sites requires specialized cleaning methods to remove tarnish without damaging the underlying metal. Alloyed with copper to improve strength, its use is documented in vessels, statues, and ritual objects. [2] [3]
Also Known As	Silver Chā̃dī Silver Argentum रजत रूपा सौध
Tags	चाँदी Chāndi Silver Plating Metal Inlay Ornament Tarnish रजत Rajata
Material ID	`INHFMAT-578854082-20-11-25-RT`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/silver
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/silver`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	1
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Ancient Period Medieval Period
Dynasties	Maurya Dynasty Vijayanagara Dynasty Gupta Dynasty Mughal Dynasty

Title	Type	Notes
ASI Technical Bulletin	Technical Report	Material analysis
Metalwork in Medieval India	Book	Silver usage
National Museum Conservation Reports	Technical Report	Metal analysis

चाँदी (Silver)

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