azúr

Azur is a term that primarily refers to a deep, bright blue color, often associated with the sky on a clear day or the sea. The word originates from the Persian word "lazhward," meaning blue, which was later adopted into French as "azur" and then into English. Historically, azur was also the name of a pigment derived from the semi-precious stone lapis lazuli. This pigment, known as ultramarine, was highly prized for its intense blue hue and was used in art and textiles for centuries. Due to the rarity and expense of lapis lazuli, ultramarine was one of the most costly pigments to produce.

In heraldry, azur is the tinctures representing the color blue. It is often depicted as a solid blue field or on charges within a coat of arms. The color blue itself is frequently symbolic, representing qualities such as serenity, stability, loyalty, and depth. In various contexts, the shade of blue referred to as azur can vary slightly, but it generally signifies a vibrant and rich blue. The term is also used metaphorically to describe something that is clear, bright, or of the highest quality.