Saffron

Saffron was a rare and expensive spice produced from the crocus flower.

Availability
Places in the Realms where one could find saffron being produced or sold included:
 * The only place in Faerûn where the crocus flower grew in abundance was Ormpur Bay in southwest Faerûn. From this flower, saffron was produced in Ormpur, which was named the "City of Saffron" for good reason.
 * In Kara-Tur, saffron was one of the main spices traded through the town of Pursai in Malatra.
 * Saffron was also known and used in the continent of Zakhara.

Usage
Saffron was used as both a spice and a spell component. It was one ingredient in the ointment required for the true seeing spell.

It was also one of the components in a specialized Zakharan ritual used to summon air spirits called sakina.

Price
Saffron was available for purchase through Aurora's Whole Realms Catalogue. As a spell component, 4 ounces (113 grams) of ground saffron was sold for 4 gold pieces. As a spice, 1 ounce (28 grams) of whole saffron was sold for 45 gold pieces. In general, 1 pound (0.45 kilograms) of saffron might go for 15 gold pieces.

History
In the Year of the Prince, 1357 DR, the dowry of Chansreena (princess) Alabhansree Alanasker of Ormpur included a large quantity of saffron, as well as many magical blades. This dowry disappeared when she did.