Definition of the word sapphire

The word "sapphire" originated from the Greek word "sapphirus," which means blue. The ancient Greeks and Romans believed that sapphires were blue stones taken from the lapis sapphirus (a type of rock rich in iron and titanium), which was named for its resemblance to the Greek word "sapphirus." The popular perception of the color blue as the color of sapphires emerged in medieval Europe, specifically in England, where sapphires were abundantly found in the mineral-rich county of Cornwall. The French crown also frequently used sapphires in their jewels partially due to their association with the blue color of the royal banner. Over time, the term sapphire came to refer specifically to the titanium or iron-rich corundum mineral, of which there are variations that occur in other colors besides blue, such as pink, yellow, green, and orange. The name sapphire, however, remained attached to the blue-colored variety as it is today. In summary, the word "sapphire" originated from the Greek word "sapphirus," meaning blue, which was applied to a type of rock containing blue-colored corundum minerals, which, over time, came to refer specifically to the mineral titanium or iron-rich corundum with a blue color. Citations: 1. "History of Sapphire." International Gem Society. (2021). Https://gemsociety.org/gems/sapphire/history-of-sapphire/ 2. "Sapphire." Britannica. (2021). Https://www.britannica.com/science/sapphire 3. "The History of Sapphire." Lapidary Journal. (2021). Https://www.lapidaryjournal.com/article-categories/precious-stones/the-history-of-sapphire/ 4. "Sapphire: What's In A Name?" Geology.com. (2021). Https://geology.com/gemstones/sapphire-what%E2%80%99s-in-a-name/