Gem Quiz

Cleopatra Loved Me As Eye Shadow, And I’m Found At My Best In Afghan Mines

Just don’t call me “sapphire.”

Published

4 years ago

October 12, 2020

Chris Burslem

I SUSPECT I WOULD have featured in Elizabeth Taylor’s jewelry collection in only a minor way if at all. Regardless, she remains one of my favorite actresses. Few women since Cleopatra have made me look so good when applied as eye shadow. The Egyptians weren’t the first to be enamored with me. The Sumerians, Assyrians and Babylonians all loved me as well for my heavenly blue (although it must be said, they didn’t have the sharpest eyes — they couldn’t distinguish me from sapphire). Back then it was in Afghan mines where I was found in my best form, and 5,000 years later that is still the case. Although today I am more likely to end up in a men’s ring than decorating a royal scarab. My name simply means “blue stone” but it sounds like a five-syllable poem within a word.

Who am I?

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”