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What is the origin of the idiom "of the first water" and when to use it?
The idiom "of the first water" derives from the world of gemstones, particularly diamonds. During the 18th century, diamonds were evaluated based on their clarity, with perfectly clear and colorless diamonds being deemed the highest quality. Gemologists used water to observe how a diamond's brilliance and purity remained when submerged. Diamonds that retained their pristine appearance in water were labeled as "of the first water." This idiom has evolved to describe individuals who possess exceptional skill or talent in a particular area or field, to the point of being considered exemplars of excellence. It emphasizes the highest level of expertise or proficiency.
(of a diamond or pearl) of the finest or rarest quality
What is the origin of the idiom "of the first water" and when to use it?
The idiom "of the first water" has its origins in the world of gemstones, particularly diamonds. In the 18th century, diamonds were classified based on their quality and purity. Diamonds that were perfectly clear and colorless were considered the highest quality. To assess this, gemologists would place a diamond in water, and the degree to which the diamond's brilliance and purity were retained in the water determined its quality. Diamonds that remained perfectly clear in water were referred to as "of the first water." Over time, this phrase evolved to describe things of the highest quality, excellence, or purity in their respective fields. It is often used to emphasize exceptional characteristics or standards.
