Chalcedony is a precious stone mentioned in the Bible, specifically in the context of the New Jerusalem as described in the Book of Revelation. This stone is part of the foundation of the heavenly city, symbolizing beauty, strength, and divine craftsmanship.

Biblical References:

The primary biblical reference to chalcedony is found in Revelation 21:19, where it is listed as one of the twelve foundation stones of the New Jerusalem: "The foundations of the city walls were adorned with every kind of precious stone: The first foundation was jasper, the second sapphire, the third chalcedony, the fourth emerald" . This passage highlights the splendor and glory of the New Jerusalem, with chalcedony contributing to the overall magnificence of the city.

Description and Characteristics:

Chalcedony is a cryptocrystalline form of silica, composed of very fine intergrowths of quartz and moganite. It is known for its waxy luster and can appear in a variety of colors, including white, blue, gray, and brown. The stone is often translucent and has been valued for its beauty and durability throughout history.

Historical and Cultural Context:

In ancient times, chalcedony was highly prized and used in various forms of jewelry and ornamentation. Its name is believed to be derived from the ancient city of Chalcedon in Asia Minor, where the stone was likely first discovered or traded. The use of chalcedony in biblical times would have been associated with wealth and status, as well as with religious and ceremonial significance.

Symbolism in Scripture:

In the biblical context, chalcedony, as part of the New Jerusalem's foundation, symbolizes the eternal and unshakeable nature of God's kingdom. The use of precious stones in the description of the heavenly city serves to convey the idea of divine perfection and the ultimate fulfillment of God's promises to His people. Each stone, including chalcedony, represents a facet of God's glory and the beauty of His creation.

Theological Significance:

From a theological perspective, the inclusion of chalcedony in the New Jerusalem's foundation can be seen as a representation of the purity and holiness that characterizes the eternal dwelling place of God with His people. The precious stones, including chalcedony, reflect the light of God's presence, illuminating the city and its inhabitants with divine radiance.

In summary, chalcedony holds a significant place in biblical imagery, symbolizing the beauty, strength, and eternal nature of God's kingdom. Its mention in the Book of Revelation serves as a reminder of the glory and majesty of the New Jerusalem, the ultimate fulfillment of God's redemptive plan for humanity.Revelation 21:19
And the foundations of the wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth, an emerald;
Torrey's Topical Textbook

Introduction.
... These precious stones have been identified as follows, taking the High Priest's ... 4.
Carbuncle 5. Lapis Lazuli (blue) 6. Jasper (Greek chalcedony, dark green) iii ...
/.../ambrose/works and letters of st ambrose/introduction 4.htm

On Counter Promises.
... of jasper, and its battlements of crystal; that it is to have a wall composed of
many precious stones, as jasper, and sapphire, and chalcedony, and emerald ...
/.../origen/origen de principiis/chapter xi on counter promises.htm

The New Jerusalem.
... the city were adorned with every kind of precious stone ... the second, a sapphire; the
third, a chalcedony; the fourth ... behold, I will lay thy stones with fair colors ...
/.../bliss/a brief commentary on the apocalypse/the new jerusalem.htm

The Holy City; Or, the New Jerusalem:
... wall of the city were garnished with all manner of precious stones. The first
foundation was jasper; the second, sapphire; the third, a chalcedony; the fourth ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the holy city or the.htm

The People of the New Earth
... were adorned with every kind of precious stone ... fifth, a sardonyx (a mixture of
chalcedony and cornelian ... somewhat difficult to identify these stones with exactness ...
/.../bullinger/commentary on revelation/the people of the new.htm

Is it possible for gold dust to come down during a church service? | GotQuestions.org

What does it mean that Jesus Christ is the cornerstone? | GotQuestions.org

Can a Christian lose salvation? | GotQuestions.org

Precious: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus