Gemstones of the Heavenly Jerusalem

St. Bede the Venerable, in his Expositio Apocalypseos, interpreted the twelve foundation stones of the Heavenly Jerusalem (Revelation 21) as symbols of specific virtues possessed by the saints. These stones represent both the structural stability of the city and the moral character of its inhabitants, serving as examples for the living.
Key Gemstones and Virtues (According to Bede's Tradition):

Jasper: Green, symbolizing the freshness of faith.
Sapphire: Sky blue, representing the hope of heaven.
Chalcedony: Sky blue or white, representing the flame of inner charity.
Emerald: Bright green, representing the vigor of faith.
Sardonyx: Red and white, representing the purity of martyrs.
Sardius (Carnelian): Red, symbolizing the blood of martyrs.
Chrysolite: Gold/yellow, representing heavenly wisdom.
Beryl: Green/blue, representing true wisdom.
Topaz: Greenish-yellow, representing contemplation.
Chrysoprasus: Gold/green, representing the joy of the saints.
Jacinth: Blue, representing heavenly devotion.
Amethyst: Purple, representing the heavenly kingdom.

Bede emphasized that these stones were not just decorations but represented the enduring, virtuous nature of those who make up the city of God.

The precious stone is Christ, Who says, “The glory which Thou gavest Me, I have given them.”
...with jasper from the whiteness of virtues; to crystal, from the inner purity of the mind, and faith unfeigned.

-St. Bede the Venerable, Expositio Apocalypseos, 21