[SCA-AE] Just out of curiousity

[Alheydis von Körckhingen]

Karen Kasper wrote:
> The Cornelian was for the red stone that was chosen to represent AEthelmearc back when we were founded. I think the first coronets had cornelians (also spelled carnelians) on them. They are pretty and red, and much less expensive than rubies or garnets. :-)
>   
The origin of the escarbuncle as a heraldic charge involves several 
theories as to what it symbolizes. One theory, and the most likely IMO, 
is that is symbolizes the support strapping on a shield. Another theory 
holds that it represents the rays of light bouncing off of a gemstone, 
the "carbuncle." According to that interpretation of the charge, a 
heraldic escarbuncle should always be drawn with an opening in the 
center, which represents, or would hold, the gemstone. "Carbuncle" is an 
archaic term for garnet, but in a broader sense it means any (cabachon 
cut) red gemstone, of which the carnelian is also one. :-)

Cheers!
Alheydis

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Mistress Alheydis von Körckhingen, OL
Garnet Herald to the Kingdom of Æthelmearc
Windmill Pursuivant to the Barony of Delftwood