* Ancient Greek: The word originated from the Greek word "hýakinthos" (ὑάκινθος). This word referred to a type of flower, the hyacinth, which was associated with the Greek god Apollo.
* Latin: From Greek, the word entered Latin as "hyacinthus," and later "jacinthus."
* Middle English: The word "jacinth" entered Middle English through the Old French "jacinthe."
* Modern English: The word "jacinth" has been used in English since the Middle Ages, originally referring to a gemstone that was believed to be a type of hyacinth.
However, the gem now known as "jacinth" is actually a variety of zircon, not a hyacinth flower. This confusion arose due to the similarity in color between the two.
So, while the origin of the word is rooted in Greek mythology and flower imagery, the modern usage of the word "jacinth" is primarily connected to a gemstone.