For the one who possesses these sacred gems, there is no fear from the creeping vines or the towering trees of the forest, nor does he face mockery from the lords of the land. When such gems are offered in ancestral rites, the ancestors are satisfied for many years, and the dreadful fears of water, fire, enemies, and thieves are dispelled. A person who is dark like moss or the rain-laden cloud, with a yellowish hue and lacking in luster, is described in relation to these gems. The value of such stones must be determined by learned experts, who take into account the place and the time. Thus concludes the chapter known as the ‘Examination of Vaidūrya’ in the Ācārakāṇḍa of the First Section of the illustrious Garuḍa Mahāpurāṇa. In the following discourse, it is told that in holy places, on excellent mountains, in rivers, and in other sacred locations—especially in the northern regions—these gems are discovered. In regions such as Daśārṇa, Vāgadara, Mekala, and Kālagā, among others, the stones appear with the colors of gunjā seeds, collyrium, honey, and the stalks of mṛṇāla. Their forms are varied: some resemble the conch, others the lotus, the bee, or even the sun. Strung together on threads, they are deemed supreme and pure. Yet, in these places, fierce creatures such as crows, jackals, wolves, and vultures—whose faces are wet with flesh and blood—are sometimes found in their company, adding to the sense of awe. Thus ends the chapter called ‘Examination of Pulaka’ in the Ācārakāṇḍa of the First Section of the Garuḍa Mahāpurāṇa. Then, it is said, a demon assumes the form of fire and acts according to his own will. There, gems are found adorned with indragopa insects, displaying the vibrant color of a parrot’s beak, and shaped as plump and well-formed specimens. The middle of such a gem is moon-white, exceedingly pure in color, and should resemble the deep blue of a sapphire. Thus is completed the chapter named ‘Examination of Bloodstone Gems’ in the Conduct Section of the First Branch of the Purva Khanda of the glorious Garuḍa Mahāpurāṇa. In the regions of Kaveri, Vindhya, Yavana, China, and Nepal, crystal arises, known as ‘taila’, pure and clear as the sky. Though it is not considered equal to other gems, it nevertheless destroys sin. Thus concludes the chapter ‘Examination of Crystal’. Taking the remnant of its entrails, full of strength, in Kerala and other regions, the foremost coral is known to resemble the color of rabbit’s blood, or the hue of the guñjā or jaba flower. Coral produced elsewhere is not regarded as the best; its value depends upon the skill of its craftsmanship. Possessing such coral brings both wealth and grain in the world, and it removes the fear of poison and affliction. Thus is declared the knowledge of crystal and coral gems, O Shaunaka! With this, the chapter ‘Examination of Coral’ comes to a close. Now, let all the sacred fords be declared, for among them, the fords of the Ganga are the most excellent. At Gangadvara, at Prayaga, and at the confluence of the Ganga and the ocean, one who serves and offers ancestral cakes there gains the fulfillment of desires and the conquest of sin. Kurukshetra is the supreme ford, granting both enjoyment and liberation through gifts and other rites, while Dvaraka, the beautiful city, bestows these same boons. Kedara is known to destroy all sins, and the village of Shambhala is praised as excellent. Shvetadvipa, the city of Maya, Naimisha, and the supreme Pushkara are all celebrated. Vainayaka, the great sacred place, and the supreme hermitage of Ramagiri are renowned as well. Rameshvara is the highest pilgrimage, and Karttikeya the most excellent. In Ujjayini, Mahakala is revered; in Kubjaka, Shri Dhara Hari. Mahakeshi and Kaveri, Chandrabhaga with Vipasha, and Mathura, the delightful city, and the great river Shona are all holy. In these places, the Sun, Shiva, Gana, Devi, and Hari themselves abide. Here, worship, ancestral rites, and the offering of rice-balls become imperishable. Further, Kokamukha, Varaha, and Bhundira—known as Swami—are named. Kamarupa is the great sacred place where Kamakhya abides. Viraja is another great sacred place, as is the holy site of Shri Purushottama. Thus are enumerated the most sacred fords and holy places, each bestowing their unique blessings upon those who visit and worship there.