χαλκηδών
chalkēdṓn
G5472 noun
SILEX Entry
Definition
A precious stone of a distinguished luster and coloration, identified as 'chalcedony' in later tradition. In ancient Greek contexts, χαλκηδών refers specifically to a gemstone notable for its coppery or bluish hue, likely translucent or semi-opaque, and distinct from other stones such as jasper or sapphire. In its only occurrence in the New Testament (Revelation 21:19), it serves as the designation for one of the foundation stones of the New Jerusalem, emphasizing its decorative and valuable character.
Semantic Range
a coppery or metallic-colored gemstone, chalcedony (in later tradition); a precious or semi-precious stone distinguished by coloration or luster
Root / Etymology
Probably derived from χαλκός (copper, bronze) + the morphological ending -ηδών, possibly indicating resemblance or a specific type; the relation to εἶδος (form, appearance) is speculative. The precise origin is uncertain, and its direct connection to the city of Chalcedon is possible but not established in contemporary sources.
Historical & Contextual Notes
The word χαλκηδών appears only rarely in Greek literature, primarily designating a semi-precious gemstone with a coppery or bluish luster. In the context of Revelation 21:19, χαλκηδών is classed alongside other precious materials in the depiction of the New Jerusalem's foundations. Although translated 'chalcedony' in English Bibles, the ancient understanding of the stone may differ from the modern mineralogical definition (a variety of microcrystalline quartz). The term may reflect general knowledge about colored stones rather than precise mineral classifications, which were not systematized in antiquity. Classical and Hellenistic sources do not attest to a fixed mineral or consistent identification with modern chalcedony. The city's name, Chalcedon, is sometimes linked to the stone, but no definitive evidence anchors the etymological relationship or origin of the gem. The translation as 'chalcedony' in English follows the Vulgate and later tradition, though the ancient term may have covered a wider range of stones based on color or sheen rather than strict mineralogical criteria.
Original Strong's Gloss (1890)
from χαλκός and perhaps εἶδος; copper-like, i.e. "chalcedony":--chalcedony.
Root Family
χαλκηδών (chalkēdōn) — copper, bronze, metallic luster, brilliancy, copper-hued gemstone
Word Forms
1 distinct form
| SIDANCE | Surface | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 | Occurrences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G5472-01 |
χαλκηδών | chalkedon | N NOM M SG |
chalcedony | copper-hued gemstone | chalcedony | 1 |
Occurrences in Scripture
1 occurrence
| SIDANCE | Reference | Word | Transliteration | Morphology | Common | SIBI-P1 | SIBI-P2 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G5472-01 |
Revelation 21:19 | χαλκηδών | chalkedon | N NOM M SG |
chalcedony | copper-hued gemstone | chalcedony |