Tola is a word with the IPA (ˈtoʊlə) phonetic transcription, consisting of two syllables: 'to' and 'la'. The first syllable 'to' is pronounced as 'tow' with a long 'o' sound, and the second syllable 'la' is pronounced as 'luh' with a short 'u' sound. The spelling of the word is straightforward with no silent letters or irregularities. Tola is commonly used as a unit of weight in South Asian countries and is equivalent to 11.66 grams.
Tola is a unit of weight commonly used in South Asia, particularly in India and Pakistan. It is primarily used to measure the weight of precious metals such as gold and silver. The term "tola" originated from the Sanskrit word "tol," meaning "weighing scale."
Traditionally, a tola is equivalent to 180 grains or 11.6638 grams. However, due to slight regional variations, the actual weight can vary slightly between different parts of South Asia. In some areas, a tola may be slightly lighter or heavier than the standard weight. It is important to note that the weight of a tola can also differ when used for measuring other commodities besides precious metals.
The tola is widely recognized and used by jewelers and goldsmiths, as well as individuals interested in purchasing and selling precious metals. It provides a standardized unit of weight, allowing for easier comparison and valuation of gold or silver items. The tola is often used in the pricing and trading of jewelry or other items made of precious metals, both within the local market and internationally.
In recent years, due to the introduction of metric measurements, the use of the tola has decreased, particularly in official contexts. However, it still holds significant cultural and historical value in South Asian societies, and continues to be used by individuals within the community as a convenient and familiar measure for precious metals.
In India, a weight for gold and silver, about 180 grains troy.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "tola" has its origins in the ancient Sanskrit language of India. It is derived from the Sanskrit word "tolakā", which means "weight" or "balance". In ancient times, a tola was used as a unit of measurement for weighing precious metals, particularly silver and gold. Over time, the term "tola" also came to be associated with a specific weight measurement, which varied across different regions and time periods. Today, the tola is primarily used as a unit of measurement for jewelry and precious metals in South Asia, particularly in India and Pakistan.