brazilian sapphire: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Technical / Specialised (Gemology, Jewellery Trade)
Quick answer
What does “brazilian sapphire” mean?
A blue variety of the mineral tourmaline, not a true sapphire, found in Brazil.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A blue variety of the mineral tourmaline, not a true sapphire, found in Brazil.
A trade name for a blue gemstone (indicolite or blue tourmaline) that resembles a sapphire but is a different mineral species. It is valued for its colour but is generally less expensive than genuine sapphire.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. The spelling 'sapphire' is consistent. The term is used identically in the international gem trade.
Connotations
In both varieties, the term carries a slight connotation of being a less expensive alternative or simulant, unless clearly specified as 'blue tourmaline'.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency in general language, but standard within gemological contexts in both regions.
Grammar
How to Use “brazilian sapphire” in a Sentence
The [jewellery] is set with a Brazilian sapphire.They sold the stone as a Brazilian sapphire.A Brazilian sapphire from [location].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “brazilian sapphire” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The Brazilian sapphire necklace was stunning.
- She preferred Brazilian sapphire earrings.
American English
- The Brazilian sapphire ring was appraised.
- He sourced a Brazilian sapphire pendant.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used in jewellery retail and wholesale to describe a specific product, often requiring clear disclosure.
Academic
Used in gemology and mineralogy texts, usually in quotes or with clarification that it is a trade name for tourmaline.
Everyday
Rare. A layperson might use it after hearing it from a jeweller, potentially without understanding the distinction.
Technical
Standard term in gemological trade, though 'blue tourmaline' or 'indicolite' is the scientifically precise term.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “brazilian sapphire”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “brazilian sapphire”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “brazilian sapphire”
- Assuming it is a type of sapphire. Using the term without clarifying it is tourmaline, which could be misleading.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a trade name for a blue variety of the mineral tourmaline (indicolite). True sapphire is composed of corundum.
The name is used commercially because of its visual similarity to blue sapphire. It is considered a misnomer and, in some contexts, a misleading term.
It is generally less valuable than a genuine blue sapphire of comparable size and colour, but high-quality blue tourmaline can still be a prized gemstone.
A jeweller or gemologist can distinguish them through tests for hardness, refractive index, and specific gravity. They are different minerals.
A blue variety of the mineral tourmaline, not a true sapphire, found in Brazil.
Brazilian sapphire is usually technical / specialised (gemology, jewellery trade) in register.
Brazilian sapphire: in British English it is pronounced /brəˈzɪl.i.ən ˈsæf.aɪər/, and in American English it is pronounced /brəˈzɪl.jən ˈsæf.aɪər/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms for this specific term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'Brazilian' tells you where it's from, but 'sapphire' is a lie – it's really a tourmaline in disguise.
Conceptual Metaphor
A FALSE IDENTITY or IMPOSTOR (presenting as something more valuable).
Practice
Quiz
What is a 'Brazilian sapphire' primarily composed of?