Onyx stones, and stones to be set in the ephod, and in the breastplate.
Onyx stones, х 'abneey (H68) shoham (H7718)] - (see the note at Genesis 2:12.) It is doubtful what gem is meant. J.D. Michaelis supposes it to be the onyx with pale stripes.
In the ephod - (see the note on the form of the ephod, Exodus 28:6.) An ephod was a square vestment covering the shoulders, and extending over the breast, resembling a sleeveless coat. [The Septuagint has eis teen epoomida for the garment worn over the shoulders.]
And in the breastplate - ornament used specially of the breastplate of the high priest, which was externally studded with precious stones (see the note at Exodus 28:15). [The Septuagint has kai eis ton podeeree, and for the long robe (hanging down to the feet) (Revelation 1:13).] The things mentioned in the earlier part of the catalogue were brought by the people at large; but the precious stones were contributed by the princes alone (Exodus 35:27).