Etymology: (1655–65; < It zaffera, perh. < L sapphīrasapphire)
Definition of 'zaffer'
Webster Dictionary
1. (noun)zaffer a pigment obtained, usually by roastingcobaltglance with sand or quartz, as a dark earthy powder. It consists of crudecobalt oxide, or of an impure cobalt arseniate. It is used in porcelain painting, and in enameling pottery, to produce a blue color, and is often confounded with smalt, from which, however, it is distinct, as it contains no potash. The name is often loosely applied to mixtures of zaffer proper with silica, or oxides of iron, manganese, etc
Definitions of zaffer 
