So far we have seen the various tools that are employed in Jain manuscript writing. These are objects that initiate the writing process. Another vital material required for writing the manuscripts is the ink.

The ink used is known as ‘स्याही’ (Syahee) (Persian origin), ‘शाही’(Shahee) (Hindi) or ‘મષી’ (Mashee) (Gujarati). The word ‘મષી’ (Mashee) seems to have originated from the Sanskrit word ‘मसी’ or ‘मषी’ meaning ‘black as ink’. Black, Yellow, Red, Blue, White, Gold and Silver inks were extensively used while creating an illuminated manuscript. Jain manuscripts are also famous for their natural colours. All these natural colours make the manuscript aesthetically appealing and have a long life. These natural colours were made from many other ingredients too. We will discuss here how to make these colours.