Question 1

What is जिप्सम (Gypsum)?

Accepted Answer

जिप्सम (Gypsum), chemically hydrated calcium sulfate (CaSO₄·2H₂O), served as a crucial construction material in Indic heritage architecture. Known by various names like *khadiya* and *sunnakallu* across the subcontinent, its use is evident from the Sultanate to Mughal periods [1]. With a density of 2320 kg/m³ and compressive strength of 10-15 MPa, gypsum was sourced from sedimentary deposits, often near Rajasthan and Gujarat. Processing involved calcination to produce plaster of Paris, a binding agent. This *chuna* (lime) based plaster was used for interior finishes, stucco (*gach*), and decorative moldings. Durability is a concern due to its slight solubility in water, requiring careful conservation. Traditional methods, documented in *shilpa shastras*, involved mixing gypsum with lime and aggregates for enhanced workability. Conservation of heritage sites like Mughal-era structures necessitates careful analysis of the original *lepam* (plaster) composition and appropriate restoration techniques to mitigate water damage and salt efflorescence [2], [3].

Question 2

What type of material is जिप्सम (Gypsum)?

Accepted Answer

जिप्सम (Gypsum) is classified as Sedimentary Mineral, Binding Agent, Plaster. Key properties include Density: 2320 kg/m³, Compressive strength: 10-15 MPa, Solubility in water: Slightly soluble.

Question 3

Where is जिप्सम (Gypsum) used?

Accepted Answer

जिप्सम (Gypsum) is commonly used in Rajasthan, Gujarat. It is sourced from Rajasthan gypsum mines.

Question 4

How is जिप्सम (Gypsum) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

जिप्सम (Gypsum) is used for Plaster for walls and ceilings, Stucco for decorative elements, Manufacture of decorative moldings, Interior finishes in buildings in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for जिप्सम (Gypsum)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of जिप्सम (Gypsum) requires attention to Susceptible to moisture damage and Can dissolve in humid environments. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	जिप्सम (Gypsum) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Jipsam Gypsum 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	जिप्सम (Gypsum), chemically hydrated calcium sulfate (CaSO₄·2H₂O), served as a crucial construction material in Indic heritage architecture. Known by various names like khadiya and sunnakallu across the subcontinent, its use is evident from the Sultanate to Mughal periods [1]. With a density of 2320 kg/m³ and compressive strength of 10-15 MPa, gypsum was sourced from sedimentary deposits, often near Rajasthan and Gujarat. Processing involved calcination to produce plaster of Paris, a binding agent. This chuna (lime) based plaster was used for interior finishes, stucco (gach), and decorative moldings. Durability is a concern due to its slight solubility in water, requiring careful conservation. Traditional methods, documented in shilpa shastras, involved mixing gypsum with lime and aggregates for enhanced workability. Conservation of heritage sites like Mughal-era structures necessitates careful analysis of the original lepam (plaster) composition and appropriate restoration techniques to mitigate water damage and salt efflorescence [2], [3].
Also Known As	Gypsum Jipsam Gypsum Calcium Sulfate Dihydrate जिप्सम खड़िया सेलखड़ी गोदन्ती भस्म சுண்ணாம்புக்கல் (Cunnāmpukkal) సున్నపురాయి (Sunnapurāyi) ಸುಣ್ಣಕಲ್ಲು (Sunnakallu)
Tags	Gypsum Calcium Sulfate Plaster Stucco Binding Agent Sedimentary Mineral
Material ID	`INHFMAT-251390345-20-11-25-JS`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/gypsum
API Endpoint	`https://inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/gypsum`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	0
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Medieval Period Sultanate Period Mughal Period
Dynasties	Mughal Dynasty Delhi Sultanate

जिप्सम (Gypsum)

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