Mysterious Crossword Clue Revealed: Untangling the Enigma of the ‘Gem of the Mountains’

As a detective solving the mystery of the crossword clue, my mind instantly starts racing to decipher the hidden meaning behind the puzzle’s words. The first clue that catches my attention is the phrase “completely fabricated.” This suggests that the solution isn’t a literal translation, but rather an entirely made-up moniker.

Next, I focus on the phrase “translated as ‘gem of the mountains’.” Here, I realize that the puzzle is giving a clue in the form of a translation, indicating that the answer could be a location associated with mountains and precious stones. With this knowledge, I begin my investigation into possible places that fit this description.

By combining these two crucial pieces of information, I start brainstorming locations that are renowned for their mountains and potential gem-like qualities. One place that immediately stands out is the state of Idaho. Known for its stunning Rocky Mountain range and the presence of the “Star Garnet,” a rare gem found only in the region, it perfectly fits the puzzle’s criteria.

Moreover, what seals the deal is the fact that the name “Idaho” itself is fabricated. In fact, the name was completely made up by George M. Willing, a young delegate from Colorado Territory, as he claimed it was derived from a Native American phrase meaning “gem of the mountains.” However, it was later revealed that the name was entirely fictional.

It is through this captivating thought process and these insightful pieces of information that the answer ‘IDAHO’ emerges as the perfect solution to the crossword clue. The mystery has been solved, and the detective has uncovered the truth hidden within the words of the puzzle.