Unusual / Interesting names

Pola is an international name that still bears the femme fatalish air of Polish-born silent screen vamp Pola Negri, whole birth name was Apolonia. Rarely used, she could join sisters Lola and Nola.

This name of the Roman goddess of fruit trees is also associated with a suburban town in Southern California.

This ancient saint's name was borne by the infamous midcentury playboy, Porfirio Rubirosa.

Priya originated in India as a name derived from the Sanskrit word for "beloved." In India, where names are often given based on one’s birthday and horoscope, Priya is traditionally given to girls born in August. Priya is used in Hindu mythology as the name of a daughter of King Daksha—known for fathering 146 daughters.

Pronounced "TAHL-a-mee," this was the name of one of Alexander the Great's generals and several Greco-Egyptian rulers, as well as the name of a famous Greek astronomer. Actress Gretchen Mol brought it into modern times when she chose it for her baby.

A really unusual choice that could be used to honor Grandpa Will.

A plausible unisex name, inspired by Basque fashion designer Paco (actually born Francisco Cuervo)--who was known for his 1960s "Unwearables "--metal-linked plastic dresses and designs for the futuristic movie "Barbarella."

A perfectly fine Eastern European girls' name, tainted slightly by its use as the name of a village near Chernobyl in Ukraine that has been devastated by radiation.

Whether spelled Raffaela, Rafaela, Raffaella, or Raphaela, a euphonius name with a dark-eyed, long-flowing-haired image. Like Gabriella and Isabella, is beginning to be drawn into the American mainstream.

Known in America via the wife of Soviet head Mikhail Gorbachev; a possibility for parents of Eastern-European descent wanting to move beyond Natasha and Nadia or for parents from the Middle East looking for a name that works in both cultures.

Lots of charm.

Rashida is an evocative and alluring name, currently represented by Rashida Jones, daughter of Peggy Lipton and Quincy Jones, who has been featured in The Office, Parks & Recreation, and The Social Network.

Wise, with vivacity.

A traditional name still used in Orthodox families. Rivka is the original form of Rebekah or Rebecca, today used far more widely than the original. Rifka is a variation.