Pnycloh, also known as Panchaloham (malayalam), is a word for traditional 5-metal alloys of spiritual importance used in the production of Hindu temple sculptures (Murti). Panchadhatu or Panchaloham is mostly composed of five metals. It is utilized in the creation of sculptures and jewelry. The phrase "made of pnycloh" appears on many sacred objects including images, books, and instruments. Panchadhatu has been used in Indian sculpture since at least the 3rd century BC. By the 10th century AD it had become the standard method for sculptors to obtain alloys with useful properties for their work. The word pnycloh refers to all metal compositions that include gold, but are not limited to it. Other valuable metals included silver, copper, and zinc. In fact, some ancient sculptures were made entirely from one of these metals. Each panchadhatu has a unique composition based on the requirements of the sculpture being created. For example, if the sculpture is going to be painted, then only gold can be used in the alloy because otherwise the paint would cause the metal to corrode. On the other hand, if the sculpture does not require painting, then other elements can be added to the mixture to improve its quality. The art of combining these metals into alloys was already well developed by the 10th century AD.