Parad Idols

Parad or Mercury is said to be the seed of Lord Shiva. Hindu Scriptures consider Parad to be one of the purest and auspicious of all metals. Parad is a metalloid (fluid metal) and is said to have medicinal and astrological benefits. It is believed that worship of Parad Shivlings expiates one sins. Parad Items like Parad Shivling, Parad Beads, Idols of Parad Ganesha, Parad Lakshmi, etc. are regarded very sacred and are believed to give 100 times more benefit than the puja of any other idol.
It is said in Brahma Purana that he who worships Parad Idols devotedly, whether one is male or female, Brahmin, Kshatriya, Vaishya or Shudra gets full worldly pleasures, and at last attains supreme destination (salvation). During life span, these worshippers get glory, honor, high office, name and fame, sons, grandsons and learning.