Breastplate of Aaron
![Picture](/uploads/7/2/1/4/7214921/9822469.jpg)
The Breastplate of Aaron is of interest to gem lovers because it is an early accounting of the use of gemstones as both decoration and symbol. Aaron is the brother to Moses and the leader of the tribe which is appointed as high priests.
The breastplate is described (Exodus 28:15-20) as the "Breastplate of Judgment" or "Breastplate of Decision" (dependent on the biblical translation) and is adorned with twelve gems, one for each of the 12 tribes of Israel. The Breastplate was constructed on square plate of heavy gold that was a hand span high and wide (4 inches). The gemstones were to be attached in four rows of three and each gem was to have the name of a tribe inscribed upon it.
Row 1: emerald, sapphire lapis lazuli,
Row 2: ruby, topaz, beryl
Row 3: jacinth, agate, amethyst
Row 4: turquoise, onyx, jasper
The Breastplate functioned with 2 sacred stones, the Urim and Thurim, prophetic indications that revealed divine answers to vital questions presented to God through the High Priest. Exod.28:29-30, 30:26, 30-31, 39:8-14, Neh. 7:65.
The breastplate is described (Exodus 28:15-20) as the "Breastplate of Judgment" or "Breastplate of Decision" (dependent on the biblical translation) and is adorned with twelve gems, one for each of the 12 tribes of Israel. The Breastplate was constructed on square plate of heavy gold that was a hand span high and wide (4 inches). The gemstones were to be attached in four rows of three and each gem was to have the name of a tribe inscribed upon it.
Row 1: emerald, sapphire lapis lazuli,
Row 2: ruby, topaz, beryl
Row 3: jacinth, agate, amethyst
Row 4: turquoise, onyx, jasper
The Breastplate functioned with 2 sacred stones, the Urim and Thurim, prophetic indications that revealed divine answers to vital questions presented to God through the High Priest. Exod.28:29-30, 30:26, 30-31, 39:8-14, Neh. 7:65.