Sardius
/ˈsɑːr.di.əs/noun
A reddish-brown gemstone, traditionally a type of carnelian or jasper.
Did you know?Sardius was named for Sardis in ancient Lydia, and in biblical and classical tradition it was prized as a stone of authority, often linked with signet rings and sacred adornment.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
sardios lithos
“"stone from Sardis," a reddish gemstone”
Late Latin
Latin
sardius
“a sard, a reddish-brown precious stone”
Old French
Old French
sarde / sardeine
“a sard-type gemstone”
Middle English
English
sardius
“a reddish precious stone, often identified with carnelian”
Modern English
English
sardius
“a reddish-brown gemstone”
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