ABRAXAS, or Abrasax, a word engraved on certain antique stones, called on that account Abraxas stones, which were used as amulets or charms. The Basilidians, a Gnostic sect, attached importance to the word, if, indeed, they did not bring it into use.
In this connexion the name Abraxas and the Abraxas gems must be remembered.
In addition to the word Abraxas and other mystical characters, they have often cabalistic figures engraved on them.