Dusty Ancient Gems

Petronilla

Roman and Italian feminine variation of Petronius

"yokel, woodpecker, stone"

Petronilla is an ancient saint's name that relates to the Roman family name Petronius, thought to mean yokel or woodpecker, though some connect it with Petra or Peter, meaning stone. With the…

Phaenna

Greek

"the shining one"

Light and ethereal, Phaenna is one of the Charities or Graces in some Greek myths. She was worshipped in Sparta, along with Cleta ("renowned one").

Philomela

Greek

"lover of songs"

Philomela, the name of a mythological Athenian princess who was transformed into a nightingale, is rarely heard outside the Greek community. The mellifluous Philomela might make a more distinctive…

Philomena

Greek

"lover of strength"

Philomena is an earthy Greek name now used in various Latin countries. While it has felt simply clunky for many years, it's starting -- along with such sister names as Wilhelmina and Frederica -- to…

Philophrosyne

Greek

"friendly-minded"

Philophrosyne was the spirit of welcome, friendliness, and kindness in Greek Mythology. She was one of the four younger Charites.

Philothea

Greek

"lover of God"

The name of a saint in the Greek Orthodox Church and the Greek version of the more familiar Amadea / Amadeus. Philothea could make for a lovely, unusual way to get to stylish Thea. Bottom line:…

Polyhymnia

Greek

"one of many praises"

Polyhymnia was one of the nine Muses of Greek mythology, associated with hymns, poetry, and dance. It's a whole lotta name for one girl, but now that Persephone and Calliope are on the table,…

Polyxena

Greek

"very hospitable"

Polyxena was a minor figure in Greek mythology - a daughter of King Priam and a love interest of the famed warrior Achilles. The name is a bit clunky but could be pulled off by the right woman.

Proserpina

Variation of Proserpine, Latin

"bringer of destruction"

The Roman equivalent of Persephone, making her a goddess of spring, and queen of the underworld. Also spelled Proserpine.

Prudentia

Prudentia is a feminine name with Latin origins, derived from the word 'prudentia' meaning 'prudence' or 'foresight.' In Roman mythology, Prudentia was the personification of prudence and wisdom,…

Ptelea

Greek

Greek spirit of the elm tree.