Discovering the Enchanting World of Violet Gems.

Gems of violet in colour are famous for their unique colour and mysterious charm, both of which have held people’s attention for many years. In today’s exciting article, we’ll delve into the history, symbolism, and practical use of these stunning lilac stones.

What Makes a Gemstone Violet?

Violet gemstones get their colour from trace amounts of manganese, iron, or chromium in their mineral composition. The most common violet gemstones are amethyst, sapphire, and tanzanite.

Amethyst ranges from light lilac to deep purple and owes its colour to iron and irradiation. Sapphires form in a rainbow of hues, including rich violet. Tanzanite is a vivid blue-violet gem discovered in Tanzania in the late 1960s. Other less common violet gems are iolite, spinel, tourmaline, andalusite, and fluorite.

The Allure of Amethysts

Amethyst is by far the most popular violet gem. These “bishop’s stones” have been treasured for centuries by nobility, clergy, and commoners alike. Amethyst jewelry was found among the grave goods of ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman rulers.

Amethyst panes were used to decorate the windows of European churches in the Middle Ages. Bishops carried amethyst jewelry and wore rings made of the stone. People thought that the stone stood for faith, piety, and humility.

Everyone still loves amethyst as a rock. It is the birthstone for February and the stone for weddings that happen on February 6th and February 17th. Amethyst is affordable in large sizes, which makes it ideal for statement jewelry.

Sapphires in Violet Hues

When most people think of sapphire, the rich blue variety comes to mind. But sapphires emerge from the earth in every color except red. Violet sapphires exhibit a range of purple shades.

In the past, purple was the color of kings, priests, and the very rich. In the Middle Ages, violet sapphires were worn by European royalty and the church. These valuable stones are still linked to mental enlightenment, wisdom, and honor.

The most desired violet gems are very bright and intense. There are only a few places in the world where sapphires can be mined, so nice purple stones are rare and expensive. Violet sapphires over 2 carats are truly spectacular heirloom gems.

Tanzanite: Violet Gemstone Phenomenon

Discovered in Tanzania in 1967, tanzanite remains one of the most recently uncovered gemstone sources. Tanzanite exhibits an intense violet-blue hue unlike any other gem.

Jewelry houses like Tiffany & Co. quickly embraced the vibrant new stone.By the middle of the 1960s, tanzanite was known as a rare and valuable gem. Along with the emerald and the ruby, it was one of the “Big Three” most valuable blue-violet rocks.

Tanzanite only forms in a small area at the base of Mount Kilimanjaro, which is different from many other gems. Tanzanite is a real rare because it only comes from a few places. Gems of the highest quality can fetch up to $1,000 per carat.

Violet Gem Lore and Legends

Violet gems have inspired countless legends and magical associations. People once believed amethyst guarded against drunkenness, so wine goblets were carved from amethyst. Greek mythology links amethyst with the god of wine, Dionysus.

In Buddhism, amethyst represents the sixth chakra and stimulates wisdom and intuition when worn. Sapphire symbolizes spiritual enlightenment, inner peace, and mental clarity. For centuries, Kashmiri sapphires were believed to allow prophets to predict the future.

Tanzanite’s short history has yet to produce extensive lore. But its rapid ascent to popularity led people to associate tanzanite with rarity, prestige, and prosperity.

How to Wear Violet Gems?

Thanks to their regal pedigree, violet gems feel at home in elegant, formal jewelry. Amethyst and sapphire suit artistic Art Deco styles, as well as modern minimal settings. These stones work beautifully in solitaires and multi-stone pieces.

Tanzanite makes a stunning centerpiece in rings, pendants, or earrings due to its striking color. Vivid purple gems complement all skin tones, but look especially radiant against warm tan or brown complexions.

For everyday wear, choose durable settings that protect softer amethyst and tanzanite from chips and scratches. Bezels and halo mounts work better than prong settings for active lifestyles.

Violet Gems for Collectors

Collecting excellent violet stones can become a lifelong obsession for gem lovers. You can find amethyst in every size, shape, and grade you can think of. Look for big, rare types that are full of color that come from well-known places like Russia.

Sapphire buyers look for purple gems that haven’t been treated and have a strong secondary violet color. The most valuable ones weigh at least 5 carats. Tanzanites that are less than 5 carats and have a bright primary blue and secondary violet are the most valuable.

To get the best violet gems, talk to professional jewelers and gemologists. They can help you find museum-quality stones that are shining and bright. For perfect carat weights and popular source, you can expect to pay more.

Final Thoughts on Violet Gems

Violet gems, like amethysts and sapphires, have a history that goes back thousands of years. People are still fascinated by their unique mix of beauty, mystery, and magic. Violet gems are beautiful, whether you like them for their color, history, or legend.

Take some time to enjoy the variety of purple gems the next time you go to a jewelry or crystal show. There is a beautiful violet gem for everyone, whether they want a family keepsake or a cheap fashion statement. So let out your inner prince or girl and dress in purple to look royal.