This Anglo-Saxon gem was borne by a few medieval women including Saint Merewen, Abbess of Romsey Abbey. It has also been used in literature, for example in Kit Berry's Stonewylde series. Merewen has the mellifluous vowels and Celtic charm of other current favorites like Elowen and Meredith.

Talitha appears in the Bible as words Jesus says to awaken a young girl whose parents feared she was dead. It has been used in the US since colonial times. Talitha is also the name of two stars in Ursa Major, where it's related to the Arabic word for "third." Talitha definitely makes a fresh spin on Tabitha or Talisa.

A name that is either inspired by the classic Harriet (and by the character Arrietty in The Borrowers), or, a compound name, merging Aria and Ari with Etta, to generate the meanings "little song" or "little lion"

Marlena is a feminine name with various European origins, primarily formed as a blend of 'Maria' and 'Elena' or 'Magdalena.' The name carries a romantic, elegant quality while maintaining strength. With Latin roots connected to the names Mary and Helen, Marlena suggests traditional feminine virtues like grace, nurturing, and inner beauty. Though never among the most popular names in the US, Marlena has maintained consistent usage since the mid-20th century, with periodic boosts from characters in literature and television. The name has a melodic quality with its flowing syllables, making it both sophisticated and accessible. Marlena offers the appeal of being recognizable without being overly common.

Zephyra is an ethereal feminine name derived from 'Zephyr,' the Greek god of the west wind. The name carries connotations of gentleness and freedom, as Zephyrus was known as the harbinger of spring and the mildest of the wind deities. This uncommon name possesses a dreamy, mystical quality with its flowing sounds and mythological origins. Though rare in everyday usage, Zephyra appeals to parents drawn to names with classical roots and poetic associations. The name evokes images of breezes, movement, and natural beauty. Its distinctive 'Z' beginning and melodic ending make it stand out while maintaining femininity. For those seeking a name with depth, mythological significance, and an unusual sound pattern, Zephyra offers a beautiful choice with its connections to nature and ancient tradition.

From the botanical name for common heather, Calluna vulgaris, which ultimately derives from the Greek kallos "beauty". A unique, nature-inspired route to the fashionable nicknames Callie and Luna.

Though it has never charted in the United States, this frilly name has the elements some brave, modern namers might find attractive—namely, the initial O and the -ia suffix.

This name of the queen of the fairies in A Midsummer Night's Dream has a delicate, lacy charm similar to Tatiana's, but that first syllable could cause embarrassing problems.

A striking and feminine possibility associated with a modern hero — long-time Indian prime minister, Indira Gandhi. It is also a significant choice within Hinduism, as it is used as an alternative name for Lakshmi, the wife of Vishnu and the goddess of luck and prosperity.

Adelie comes from French origins and is often associated with nobility, deriving from the Germanic name Adelaide, meaning 'noble' or 'nobility.' The name gained recognition from the Adelie penguin, discovered in 1840 by French explorer Jules Dumont d'Urville, who named the species after his wife, Adèle. As a girl's name, Adelie offers a delicate, elegant sound with a connection to both nature and aristocratic heritage. While not among the most common names, Adelie has been steadily increasing in popularity, particularly among parents seeking a name that is distinctive yet easy to pronounce. Its French flair and penguin association give it both sophistication and a whimsical quality that appeals to modern naming sensibilities.

Kimana, the name of a resort in the foothills of Mountain Kilimanjaro in Kenya, would make an unexpected path to the nickname Kim.

Calista Flockhart opened the door to a whole flock of graceful and unusual Greek names like this, including Calantha, Calla, Carissa, and Cassia. Calandra itself is the name of a species of lark, and has the versatile nickname options of Callie, Candy, Andra, Andie and Birdie.

Unusual name with stylish, silky feel.

Has a gemlike glow, as in Sapphire.

An intriguing medieval name found in various forms across Europe. Variants include Elisende, Elisenda, Elysant, Elysande, Elisent and Helisent. It likely derives from a Visigothic name meaning "temple path".

Likely a variation of the Spanish Aristea, combined with the popular -ella suffix, Aristella has its origins in Greek, drawn from the element aristos meaning "excellent" or "best". Predominantly used in Brazil, it has plenty of potential for more widespread usage as a sparkly name in its own right, and as a rare alternative to Aria, Stella, Ariana, and Ariella.

Most names that start with Cam- are on the upswing, so why not this obscure term for Wales as well as for a prehistoric time period.

Now that the range of names including the modern Emmeline and Amelia -- relatives of each other, but of neither Emily nor Emma -- has become so fashionable, the original root name Amelina is also due up for reconsideration. A lovely, delicate choice, its main disadvantage is that it sounds like a modern elaboration rather than the original name. And perhaps that it will be so often misspelled and mistaken for other forms of itself. But it is a lovely name with deep roots.

Most graceful of the Raz names, relates to Graziella.