water sapphire

American  

noun

1. a transparent variety of cordierite, found in Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and elsewhere, sometimes used as a gem.

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water sapphire British  

noun

1. a deep blue variety of the mineral cordierite that occurs in Sri Lanka: used as a gemstone

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Etymology

Origin of water sapphire

First recorded in 1690–1700

Example Sentences

One little light gold ring, with a cheap water sapphire in it, he selected from all that had been given him.

From Hugh, Bishop of Lincoln A Short Story of One of the Makers of Mediaeval England by Marson, Charles L. (Charles Latimer)

Before them stretched a long body of water, sapphire blue in the twilight, with pink shadows where the setting sun was reflected.

From The Camp Fire Girls at Long Lake Bessie King in Summer Camp by Stewart, Jane L.