Bible Dictionary
Sardine stone
The sardine stone, or sardius, was a red precious stone, probably a red carnelian. It was the first stone in the high priest’s breastplate and is also used in a vision of God’s throne.
Definition
The sardine stone, or sardius, was a blood-red precious stone. It is identified with red carnelian and was considered a valuable gem.
Biblical Usage
The sardius was included among the stones of the high priest’s breastplate. It also appears in the vision of God’s throne in Revelation.
Historical Background
The name sardius was associated with Sardis in Lydia, where the stone was said to have been obtained. Its Hebrew name is connected with a root meaning “red.”
Scripture References
Historical Bible Dictionaries
Easton's Bible Dictionary
(Rev. 4:3, R.V., “sardius;” Heb. ‘odhem; LXX., Gr. sardion, from a root meaning “red”), a gem of a blood-red colour. It was called “sardius” because obtained from Sardis in Lydia. It is enumerated among the precious stones in the high priest’s breastplate (Ex. 28:17; 39:10). It is our red carnelian.