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Sapphire Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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sapphire

[หˆsรฆfaษชษ™r ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

precious stone

A sapphire is a precious gemstone consisting of corundum in shades of blue, typically used in jewelry.

Synonyms

gemstone, jewel, precious stone.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sapphire

Used when referring to the specific blue gemstone, often associated with royalty or luxury. It can also identify a specific birthstone for September.

  • She wore a stunning sapphire ring
  • His eyes were as blue as sapphires
gemstone

A more general term for any precious or semi-precious stone that is cut and polished for decoration. Often used in jewelry context.

  • The necklace was set with various gemstones
  • She loved collecting gemstones from around the world
jewel

Refers to a precious stone or an ornament containing such stones. Can be used metaphorically to describe something valuable or special.

  • The ancient crown was encrusted with jewels
  • He called her the jewel of his life
precious stone

A highly valuable stone often used in a more formal or descriptive context. It emphasizes the stone's value and rarity.

  • They discovered a mine full of precious stones
  • The brooch was adorned with several precious stones

Examples of usage

  • She wore a beautiful necklace adorned with sapphires.
  • The ring was set with a large sapphire in the center.
Context #2 | Noun

color

Sapphire is a deep blue color, resembling the gemstone.

Synonyms

cobalt, deep blue, navy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sapphire

Used to describe a gem, a specific shade of blue, or something luxurious.

  • She wore a sapphire ring that sparkled in the sunlight.
  • The water was a brilliant sapphire color.
deep blue

Best used to describe a rich and intense blue color. Suitable for general descriptions without specific nuance.

  • The ocean appeared deep blue under the cloudless sky.
  • Her dress was a beautiful deep blue.
cobalt

Applicable when referring to a specific, vivid blue that has a metallic sheen. Often used in art and industry.

  • The artist used cobalt blue to create a striking effect in his painting.
  • The vase was made of cobalt glass.
navy

Most appropriate when referring to dark blue, often in contexts like fashion or formal wear.

  • He wore a navy suit to the interview.
  • The walls of the room were painted navy.

Examples of usage

  • The dress she wore was a stunning shade of sapphire.
  • The sky turned sapphire blue as the sun set.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Historical Significance

  • In the Middle Ages, it was believed that wearing a sapphire could protect the wearer from envy and harm.
  • Clergy members often wore sapphires as a symbol of heaven and divine favor during medieval times.
  • Queen Victoria of England favored sapphires, which led to a revival of the gemstoneโ€™s popularity in the 19th century.

Science

  • Sapphires are made of corundum, a type of aluminum oxide, and are one of the hardest natural minerals on Earth.
  • The brilliant blue color comes from trace amounts of iron and titanium within its structure.
  • Sapphires can also be formed in nature through volcanic activity and metamorphic processes.

Pop Culture

  • Famous sapphires include the 'Star of India,' which is one of the largest sapphires in the world, weighing over 563 carats.
  • Sapphires often appear in movies and TV shows as symbols of mystery and beauty, frequently associated with royal characters.
  • Princess Diana's engagement ring featured an iconic blue sapphire, which has become a symbol of elegance and style.

Folklore and Beliefs

  • In ancient Persia, it was believed that the sky was blue because of sapphire stones; their hue was thought to be heavenly.
  • Sapphires were traditionally used as talismans by soldiers in battle, believed to bring victory and protection.
  • Many cultures regard sapphires as symbols of peace, making them popular choices for weddings and special occasions.

Origin of 'sapphire'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'sapphirus', which is derived from the Greek 'sappheiros', meaning 'blue'.
  • In ancient times, different cultures believed the stone symbolized wisdom and royalty.
  • The term 'sapphire' was historically used to refer to various blue stones and even some non-blue gemstones.

The word 'sapphire' comes from the Latin word 'sapphirus' and the Greek word 'sappheiros', both meaning blue. Sapphires have been prized for their beauty and rarity for centuries, with ancient civilizations believing they brought protection and good fortune. They are often associated with royalty and symbolize wisdom, loyalty, and nobility.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,893, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.