WHITE SAPPHIRE Meaning and
Definition
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White Sapphire is a precious gemstone that exhibits remarkable clarity and a characteristic white or colorless appearance. It belongs to the corundum mineral family and shares the same composition as the renowned blue sapphire and red ruby, which are also derived from corundum. However, unlike its colored counterparts, white sapphire lacks any noticeable hue, resulting in a crystal-clear gemstone.
The defining feature of white sapphire is its exceptional hardness, rating nine on the Mohs scale. This high durability, combined with its brilliant luster, makes it a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces. White sapphire offers an attractive alternative to diamonds, as it shares similar elegance and fire while being more affordable.
White sapphires are prized for their impeccable clarity, with virtually no visible inclusions or blemishes, enhancing their overall brilliance. This gemstone is frequently faceted to maximize its light dispersion and showcase its dazzling sparkle. Its transparency allows the passage of light through the stone, which plays a crucial role in creating its radiant appearance.
Recognized for its versatility, white sapphire can be beautifully paired with various metal settings and complements a range of gemstones, enabling it to be incorporated into various jewelry designs. It is also associated with symbolic meanings, including purity, wisdom, and focus. With its alluring allure and timeless appeal, white sapphire continues to captivate jewelry enthusiasts and gemstone aficionados alike.
Etymology of WHITE SAPPHIRE
The word "sapphire" originates from the Latin word "sapphirus" or the Greek word "sappheiros", which both refer to the blue gemstone. However, in the case of "white sapphire", the term "white" simply serves as an adjective to describe the color of the gemstone. The etymology of "white" traces back to the Old English word "hwīt", which ultimately comes from the Proto-Germanic word "*hwītaz".
