touchstone

(eg. beauty, symbol, ancient )

touchstone /ˈtətʃ ˌstoʊn/ ?

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(n) a basis for comparison; a reference point against which other things can be evaluated

We, one and all, desire to see the ethical and moral standards which are implicit in our religion become touchstone of our behavior.

"I think in generations past, we might be quoting poetry or Shakespeare," Reisman said. "It seems like movie lines are where our touchstone is."
on Dec 15, 2006 By: Garrett Reisman Source: Washington Post
"I've seen people just stand mute," said Capt. William Pinkney, who will sail for part of the voyage. "It's a touchstone to a past that rarely gets talked about."
on Jun 21, 2007 By: William Pinkney Source: Forbes
In the United States, the exchange rate issue "has become a touchstone for broader anxieties about competition from China," Paulson said, warning against succumbing to the "fear that, due to China's rise, we will no longer be stewards of our...
on Nov 29, 2007 By: Henry Paulson Source: Akron Beacon Journal