Definition

Noun: A variety of the mineral cordierite that exhibits a deep blue color and is frequently cut and polished for use as a gemstone. It is valued for its attractive hue, which can resemble that of sapphire.

Usage

"Water sapphire" is a gemological term. It is used specifically to refer to the blue, gem-quality form of the mineral cordierite. It is a countable noun.

Examples

• The jeweler showed her a beautiful ring set with a water sapphire.
• Water sapphire is less known than traditional sapphire but has its own unique appeal.
• He added a water sapphire to his collection of rare gemstones.

Advanced Usage

• As a modifier: The term can be used attributively to describe other nouns.
  • Example: She preferred the water sapphire necklace over the diamond one.

Variants and Related Words

• Cordierite (n): The mineral species to which water sapphire belongs. Cordierite can be other colors, but the blue variety is called water sapphire.
• Iolite (n): Another name for gem-quality cordierite, often used synonymously with "water sapphire," though iolite can describe cordierite of various shades.

Synonyms

• Iolite (when referring to the blue gem variety)
• Blue cordierite

Notes on Meaning

The name "water sapphire" is primarily a commercial or gem trade name, not a formal scientific mineralogical term. It draws a direct comparison to the more famous and valuable blue sapphire (corundum) due to its similar color.

Noun

1. a deep blue cordierite often used as a gemstone