Ornaments and vessels
Explanation
The Harappan civilization demonstrated advanced skills in metallurgy and craftsmanship. A clear distinction existed between materials used for utilitarian purposes and those used for luxury items. Precious metals were imported and worked into high-value goods.- Tools and weapons is Incorrect: Tools and weapons in the Indus Valley Civilization were predominantly manufactured using copper and bronze. Gold and silver are too soft for effective use as cutting tools or weaponry and were too valuable for such common applications.
- Ornaments and vessels is Correct: Gold and silver were primarily utilized for making ornaments (such as beads, pendants, armlets, and brooches) and vessels. Archaeological excavations, such as the hoards found at Mohenjo-daro and Allahdino, have yielded gold jewelry and silver jars, reflecting their use as status symbols.
- Bricks and walls is Incorrect: Construction materials consisted of sun-dried or baked mud bricks. Precious metals were never utilized for structural components like bricks or walls.
- Seals and weights is Incorrect: The standard Harappan seals were primarily carved from steatite (soapstone). The standardized weights were made of a precise stone known as chert.
Key Takeaway: In Harappan material culture, copper and bronze were the metals of utility, while gold and silver were exclusively reserved for luxury crafts like jewelry and vessels.