Saturday, December 11, 2010

The Allure of Sapphires

Once in a Blue Moon, Feeling Blue, True Blue, and Sacrebleu!

  The color blue can signify rarity, one’s sadness, loyalty, and even surprise! Blue is recognized as a color of royalty and a frequent favorite color for many people. The magnificence of this color is that it can represent a very diverse set of emotions for different people.
     Take into consideration the symbolic language mentioned in the title of this article: “Once in a Blue Moon” suggests a rare occurrence and “feeling blue” refers to a sense of sadness. The term “True Blue” is one of a fascinating and historical origin. It is meant to symbolize one’s unwavering loyalty. The saying is believed to be derived from the blue cloth made by dyers in Coventry, England during the middle ages. This cloth had a reputation for its persistent blue color which did not fade with washing. In the 17th century, Scottish Presbyterians who opposed the rule of James I of Scotland wore blue badges to symbolize their enduring support for the cause. Even today, conservative politics has an association with the color blue.    
     Many Americans may recognize the exclamation “Sacrebleu!” from Disney movies such as The Little Mermaid and Beauty and the Beast. Its literal translation is “sacred blue”. The source of this phrase actually has roots in the Catholic church. Imagine such an exclamation inspired by the church! It is thought to originate from someone’s exclamation when viewing a painting of the Virgin Mary dressed in blue. This expression refers to God while reserving the mention of his name.With its fascinating history and association, it is no wonder blue is such a popular color!

Royal Sri Lankan Sapphires

     Sri Lankan Sapphires are one of the three most highly regarded Sapphires. The other two famous types are Burmese Sapphires and Kashmir Sapphires. Sri Lanka is believed to have one of the oldest Sapphire mines in the world. According to the tradition of Judaism the tablets upon which the Ten Commandments were carved by Moses are Sapphires. The color is supposed to be a mark of the heavens; therefore, it represents God’s throne.
     The use of Sri Lankan Sapphires in Royal jewels has been a popular practice. The St. Edward Sapphire on the Imperial Crown of State worn by Queen Elizabeth II comes from Sri Lanka. Princess Diana’s engagement ring also had a Sri Lankan Sapphire. It is no wonder Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton with such a precious jewel. This ring will definitely be a symbol of this century’s royal wedding!


DE15926 Sapphire & Diamond Cocktail Ring
DE16324 Sapphire & Diamond Cocktail Ring
DE16184 Pear Shaped Sapphire and Diamond Ring
DE17352 Sapphire and Diamond Engagement Ring

Adding to the allure of Sapphires, ancient Persian legend has it that Mother Earth rests upon a massive blue sapphire. The striking blue sky is purely a reflection of this mythical stone. This would be a stone to desire!

A livelier emerald twinkles in the grass; a purer sapphire melts into the sea. –Tennyson

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