Masha (India) (masha) - Unit Information & Conversion
What is a Masha (India)?
Definition
The Masha (माशा) is a traditional unit of mass originating from the Indian subcontinent. It was historically, and sometimes still is, primarily used for measuring the weight of precious metals like gold and silver, as well as gemstones. It forms a key part of the traditional Indian weight system, typically defined as being equal to 8 Ratti and 1/12th of a Tola. One Masha is approximately equal to 0.972 grams, although slight variations in this value have existed regionally and historically.
History
The Masha has been used for centuries in India and surrounding regions for trade, commerce, and traditional practices. Its use was particularly prevalent in the bullion and jewelry markets. Standardized weights based on the Masha, Tola, and Ratti system facilitated fair trade. While the metric system (grams and kilograms) is now the official standard, the Masha (along with the Tola) continues to see informal use in traditional jewelry making and trading contexts, especially in rural areas or among older generations.
Common Uses
- Jewelry: Measuring the weight of gold and silver used in ornaments.
- Bullion: Trading small quantities of precious metals.
- Gemstones: Occasionally used for weighing certain gemstones.
- Traditional Medicine (Ayurveda): Historically used for measuring ingredients in Ayurvedic formulations, though less common now.
- Spices: Sometimes used in older recipes or traditional contexts for measuring valuable spices.
Unit FAQs
How many grams are in a Masha?
One Masha is generally considered to be approximately 0.972 grams (g). However, it's important to note that the exact value could vary slightly depending on historical period and region.
How many Ratti make a Masha?
Traditionally, 8 Ratti (a smaller unit based on the weight of the Ratti seed) are equal to 1 Masha.
How many Masha make a Tola?
Traditionally, 12 Masha are equal to 1 Tola. The Tola itself is another significant traditional unit of mass in the region (approximately 11.66 grams).
Masha (India) Conversion Formulas
To Kilogram:
To Gram:
To Milligram:
To Pound:
To Ounce:
To Stone:
To Ton (metric):
To Ton (US):
To Ton (UK):
To Microgram:
To Carat:
To Slug:
To Troy Ounce:
To Pennyweight:
To Grain:
To Dram:
To Quintal:
To Atomic Mass Unit:
To Pavan (India):
To Kati (India):
To Dina (India):
To Pras (India):
To Lota (India):
Convert Masha (India)
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