of the first water

(of a person) with exceptional skill or talent in a particular area or field, to the point of being considered an example of excellence

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.

As a pianist, she is of the first water, captivating audiences worldwide with her remarkable performances.
John's culinary skills are of the first water; he's a renowned chef in the culinary world.
The engineer's innovative designs are of the first water, pushing the boundaries of technology.
Her leadership qualities are of the first water, inspiring and guiding her team to achieve great success.

(of a diamond or pearl) of the finest or rarest quality

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.

Her singing voice is of the first water, captivating everyone who hears her perform.
The craftsmanship of this antique clock is of the first water, a true work of art.
He is a scholar of the first water, recognized for his groundbreaking research in the field.
The film's special effects are of the first water, setting a new standard in the industry.
This restaurant is known for its cuisine of the first water, earning Michelin stars for its exceptional dishes.