Sardius (or Sard)

views updated Jun 27 2018

Sardius (or Sard)

A precious stone that is a variety of cornelian, varying in color from pale yellow to reddish orange. According to ancient tradition, it is an antidote to the onyx. It was believed to prevent unpleasant dreams, to make its possessor wealthy, and to sharpen the wit. It was one of the twelve stones in the breastplate of the Jewish high priest and a foundation stone of the New Jerusalem yet to appear (Revelation 21:20).

sardius

views updated May 17 2018

sardius a red precious stone mentioned in the Bible (e.g. Exodus 28:17, as adorning the breastpiece of the high priest, and Revelations 21:20, as set in the wall of the New Jerusalem) and in classical writings, probably ruby or carnelian.

sardius

views updated Jun 11 2018

sardius precious stone, sard. XIV. — late L. — Gr. s´rdios, prob. f. Sardā́ Sardinia.