GNU Collaborative International Dictionary of English

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1.       
   Porphyry , n.; pl. Porphyries . [F. porphyre, L. porphyrites, fr. Gr.  like purple, fr.  purple. See Purple.] (Geol.) A term used somewhat loosely to designate a rock consisting of a fine-grained base (usually feldspathic) through which crystals, as of feldspar or quartz, are disseminated. There are red, purple, and green varieties, which are highly esteemed as marbles.
   1913 Webster
   Porphyry shell (Zool.), a handsome marine gastropod shell (Oliva porphyria), having a dark red or brown polished surface, marked with light spots, like porphyry.
   1913 Webster