σάρδιος
sárdios
G4556
SILEX Entry
Definition
A precious gemstone called 'sardian,' a reddish-brown or deep orange-red variety of chalcedony, valued for its hardness and lustrous appearance. In ancient contexts, primarily refers to this gem used in jewelry or set in ceremonial objects. As a noun: 'the sard stone,' with reference to a gemstone of significant value, especially in lists of precious stones in ancient inventories.
Semantic Range
sard stone, precious gemstone, carnelian, a stone set in ceremonial objects, a stone in ornamental or foundation settings
Root / Etymology
Derived from Σάρδεις (Sardis), the chief city of Lydia in Asia Minor, where the stone was likely traded or known; thus, meaning 'of Sardis.' Alternatively connected to the ancient name for the region (Sardinia), but the Lydian origin is more probable. Related to the Latin sardius and Hebrew סַרְדִּין (sardîn) in the Septuagint. Not from a Greek verb or root but a toponym (place name).
Historical & Contextual Notes
In Greek literature and material culture from the classical and Hellenistic periods, σάρδιος refers specifically to the gemstone imported from Lydia (Sardis), part of the family of microcrystalline quartz distinguished by its reddish color. Featured in ancient inventories of precious stones and set in rings, seals, and ceremonial objects. In the Septuagint and New Testament (notably Revelation 4:3, 21:20), τοῦ σαρδίου λίθου appears in lists of foundation stones or as descriptors in vision imagery, emphasizing brilliance and rarity. Traditionally translated as 'sardius' or 'carnelian' in English Bibles. The Hebrew tradition associates this gem with the High Priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:17), rendering אֹדֶם as σάρδιος in the LXX, indicating a red-colored stone. The English 'sardius' is rarely used outside of biblical translations; 'carnelian' is the more common mineralogical term today, though historically in antiquity sard and carnelian distinguished by subtle color differences. Usage is limited almost exclusively to precious stone contexts, with no metaphorical or extended figurative meanings in Koine or classical sources.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
properly, an adjective from an uncertain base; sardian (3037 being implied), i.e. (as noun) the gem so called:--sardius.
Root Family
uncertain (bótrys) — proper name, personal name
| Strong's | Lemma | SIBI-P1 |
|---|---|---|
| G1009 | βότρυς | clusters |
| G1050 | Γάϊος | to Gaius |
| G1055 | γαλήνη | calm stillness |
| G108 | Ἄζωτος | Ashdod |
| G1148 | Δαλμανουθά | of Dalmanoutha |
Word Forms
0 distinct forms
No word forms found for this Strong's number.
Occurrences in Scripture
0 occurrences
No occurrences found.