Carbuncle
Archimandrite Nikifor’s Biblical Encyclopedia
(anthrax) (Tobit 13:17; Exod. 28:18; 39:11 [as given]). The carbuncle, a rare and precious stone, found chiefly in Peru and the East Indies, and formerly an article of trade with Tyre, is dark red in color. In sunlight it loses its dark hue and resembles a glowing coal, from which it takes its name. It occupies the first place in the second row of stones of the high priest’s breastplate of judgment. The Hebrew word barekath in Ezekiel (28:13) and ekdach [as given] in Isaiah (54:12) is translated by the word “carbuncle,” to signify, alongside the other precious stones, the glory, magnificence, purity, and radiance of the eternal dwellings for righteous souls.