Est. 1941. Threads of Saffron are the gold of spices. Precious and rare, Saffron comes from a lovely violet crocus. Only three stigmas, or threads, are hand picked from each flower. 7500 flowers are needed to produce one pound of Saffron. Intensely flavored, a pinch of saffron pleasantly flavors an entire dish. www.spiceislands.com.