Solid as a Rock Names

Ione

Greek

"violet flower"

This unusual Greek flower and color name has gained considerable recent attention via actress Ione Skye, who is the daughter of sixties folksinger Donovan. Ione was one of the fifty sea nymphs —…

Beryl

Greek

"sea-green jewel"

Dated British favorite that never caught on in this country, where Jade remains the green gem of choice. Interesting namesakes: British writer Beryl Bainbridge and British aviatrix Beryl Markham.

Garnet

Jewel name, from the French

"pomegranate"

One of the jewel names in use a hundred years ago, due for revival along with sisters Ruby and Pearl.

Bijou

French

"jewel"

Bijou is a name that lives up to its definition -- a real jewel. Warning: not unheard of on poodles' dog collars. Actress Bijou Phillips is its best known bearer. It can also be spelled Bijoux.

Takara

Japanese

"treasure, jewel"

A lovely Japanese alternative to Tamara.

Agate

French, a semiprecious stone, or variation of Agatha

Though it's French, most Americans would pronounce it as the stone.

Armel

French

"bear prince"

The name of a sixth century Welsh saint who founded abbeys in Brittany, reconstituted for a modern girl.

Charra

Gaelic

"large stoneor rock"

Rarely heard as a name; Chiara might be preferable.