What is Tola
The tola is one of the oldest weight measurements still in active use today, particularly in South Asian gold and silver markets. Also spelled tolah or tole, it is a traditional unit of weight used across South Asia, primarily for measuring precious metals like gold and silver. One tola is standardized at exactly 11.6638038 grams, which is equivalent to 180 troy grains or 3/8 of a troy ounce.
1 Tola = 11.6638038 grams = 180 troy grains Etymology and Origin
The word "tola" derives from the Sanskrit "tolaka" (तोलक), meaning "a weight" or "scales." This ancient term reflects the unit's deep roots in Indian subcontinent commerce and trade that dates back thousands of years.
In ancient India, the tola was one of several weight units used in the sophisticated system of measurements developed for trade. It was particularly favored for weighing precious metals due to its convenient size for jewelry transactions.
Historical Development
Ancient Period
Used in Vedic texts and Mauryan Empire trade. Weight standards varied by region but the concept remained consistent.
Mughal Era
The Mughal emperors standardized many weights and measures across their empire, helping establish more uniform tola values in trade.
British Colonial Period
The British Raj standardized the tola at exactly 180 troy grains (11.6638038 grams) to facilitate trade and taxation. This standardization remains in use today.
Modern Usage
Today, the tola remains the primary unit for gold trade in Pakistan, Nepal, and parts of India, while grams are increasingly used in formal commerce.
Regional Variations
While the standard tola is 11.6638g, understanding how different regions use this unit is essential for accurate transactions:
| Region | Tola Usage | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 🇵🇰 Pakistan | Primary unit | All gold markets use tola |
| 🇮🇳 India | Mixed | Grams preferred in urban areas |
| 🇳🇵 Nepal | Primary unit | NGSA quotes in tola |
| 🇧🇩 Bangladesh | Traditional use | Rural areas prefer tola |
| 🇦🇪 UAE | Understood | Grams official, tola for expats |
Related Traditional Units
The tola is part of a traditional weight system that includes several other units still used in gold markets:
Masha
1 tola = 12 masha. Used for smaller jewelry pieces.
Ratti
1 masha = 8 ratti. Also used for gemstone weights.
Seer
1 seer = 80 tola ≈ 933g. A larger historical unit.
Ten-Tola Bar
Standard gold bar = 10 tola ≈ 116.64g. Common in bullion trade.