The butterfly family Lycaenidae, also known as Gossamer-winged Butterflies, includes some of the most visually striking small butterflies globally. Despite their diminutive size, they possess considerable aesthetic appeal. In Africa, the genus Iolaus, or Sapphires, belonging to the subfamily Theclinae, comprises some of the most prominent species. Male Sapphires often occupy elevated positions on forest edges or hilltops, actively defending their territory against other butterflies. Female Sapphires are typically found on flowers or in proximity to host plants.

Sapphires are relatively large compared to other Lycaenids. The Southern Sapphire, Iolaus silas, is native to the southeast coast of South Africa, ranging from Gqeberha to Richards Bay. The wingspan of males measures between 32 and 37 mm, while females have a wingspan of 34 to 41 mm. At the northern edge of its distribution, it intergrades with the Straight-line Sapphire, Iolaus silarus. This species is similar to the Southern Sapphire in all stages of its life cycle. Adult butterflies can be distinguished by the shape of the thin red line across the outer part of the hindwing; this line is curved in the Southern Sapphire but straight in the Straight-line Sapphire, as reflected in their common names.

Male butterflies are highly noticeable as they perch on elevated leaves and twigs, their pearly white undersides reflecting the sunlight. They seem to choose trees with glossy foliage, which also reflects sunlight and may provide camouflage protection for the butterflies. These males exhibit strong territorial behaviour; upon spotting a potential rival, they initiate a high-speed chase, circling each other until they vanish into the sky. When encountering a female, a courtship flight occurs, with the male pursuing his prospective mate into the foliage where mating transpires.

There are twelve species of Iolaus Sapphire found in South Africa; all except one exhibit more or less shiny blue on the upper side, with the exception being the Saffron Sapphire, which is yellow. Notably, several other Sapphires display stripes of contrasting colours on the undersides. These butterflies are highly regarded by lepidopterists and photographers alike. Their propensity for high flight can present challenges for photography; however, locating caterpillars can be relatively straightforward if one is familiar with the appropriate host plants, facilitating their rearing to adulthood.