Gem Legends: Celebrities as Cat Lovers

Centuries ago, Sri Lankan sapphires sailed across the globe through maritime routes, capturing the hearts of many, including numerous historical figures. Among these historical figures, some also had another identity: devoted cat lovers.

For these cat-loving historical figures, sapphires and felines have a subtle connection. Just as sapphires are known for their deep, varied colors, so too are the eyes of cats. The tranquility and peace that come from spending time with cats are akin to the calming effects of sapphires.

Here are some interesting tales of sapphire enthusiasts who were also cat lovers:

Emperor Jiajing: Sapphire for Persian Cats

During China's Ming Dynasty, cats became popular, especially among high-ranking officials and royalty. The longest-serving cat lover was Emperor Jiajing, who reportedly kept dozens of prized cats. When a European explorer presented him with ten purebred Persian cats, Jiajing was so delighted that he gifted twenty of his finest sapphires in return, claiming the Persian cats' eyes resembled the sapphires.

Winston Churchill: Pricier Gifts for Cats

Winston Churchill, the British Prime Minister during WWII, was an avid cat lover. He once gave his cat, Mrs. Emily, a custom-made sapphire-studded cat collar worth about £17,000 for her fifteenth birthday, a gift far more expensive than those he gave his own secretary.

Karl Lagerfeld: Cats + Sapphires = Elegance

Fashion icon Karl Lagerfeld, known for his deep affection for his cat Choupette, once received a silver cat dish embedded with five Sri Lankan sapphires from a Middle Eastern oil tycoon trying to secure a modeling opportunity for his daughter. Lagerfeld's praise for Choupette, comparing her to a symbol of elegance, highlighted his unique blend of cat and sapphire admiration.

So, dear sapphire-loving cat enthusiasts, have you ever thought of gifting a sapphire to your feline friend?