Which stone was used by Harappans for beads?

Correct answer: Carnelian

The direct answer is C, Carnelian. Harappan craftspeople used carnelian, a reddish semi-precious stone, to make beads. Bead making was an important craft in the Indus or Harappan civilisation. The reasoning is simple: archaeological finds show Harappan beads made from materials such as carnelian; the question asks for a stone used for beads; therefore option C is correct. Option A, granite, is a hard building stone and is not the characteristic answer for Harappan bead making. Option B, marble, can be used for carving, but it is not the stone specially associated with this bead-making evidence. Option C is correct because carnelian beads are a well-known Harappan craft product, often shaped, polished, and sometimes drilled. Option D, coal, is a fuel and is not normally used to make polished stone beads. Exam cue: Harappan craft, beads, and reddish carnelian belong together.