Q. Which was the most used raw material for making beads in the Indus Valley Civilization?
Answer: Steatite
Notes: Though exotic gemstones were also crafted, steatite was the most commonly used raw material for Indus beads accounting for over 80% in Mohenjo-daro. Naturally occurring across the natural landscapes frequented by Harappans, steatite is a soft stone that can be easily carved into miniature beads. The variety of colors and ease of mass production made steatite beads affordable for all levels of society in settlements along the trade networks. Their ubiquitous presence across classes and regions reinforced cultural cohesion and identity reflecting sophisticated artisanship by even modest households.