Correct Option
The correct option is Steatite.
Explanation
Bead making was a highly developed craft in the Indus Valley Civilization. Artisans utilized a diverse range of materials, including stones (carnelian, jasper, crystal, quartz, steatite), metals (copper, bronze, gold), and other substances like shell, faience, and terracotta.
Detailed Analysis
Archaeological excavations of Harappan burials reveal that the dead were typically laid in pits, often accompanied by pottery and ornaments. Jewellery has been discovered in the graves of both men and women.
- The Specific Finding: In excavations conducted at the cemetery in Harappa in the mid-1980s, a specific ornament was found near the skull of a male. This ornament consisted of three shell rings, a single jasper bead, and hundreds of micro beads.
- Material Composition: These micro beads were crafted from steatite. Steatite is a soft stone (talc-schist), which made it suitable for intricate carving and shaping.
- Technological Significance: The production of these minute beads demonstrates advanced craftsmanship. While the soft nature of steatite facilitated the work, the precise method used to manufacture such tiny beads remains a significant example of ancient technological skill.
Key Takeaway
Steatite was the material used to manufacture the distinct micro beads found in Harappan burials, highlighting the civilization's mastery over soft-stone crafting techniques.