Purple gemstones have captivated humanity for millennia, imbued with symbolism ranging from royalty and spirituality to protection and healing. While several gems exhibit this alluring hue, amethyst stands out as the most recognized and popular, particularly as the birthstone for February. However, the world of purple gemstones extends far beyond amethyst, encompassing a diverse array of minerals, each with unique properties, origins, and lore. This article delves into the fascinating realm of purple gemstones, exploring their history, geological formation, gemological characteristics, and cultural significance, as understood through available sources.
History and Lore
The association of purple with power and prestige dates back to ancient times. Amethyst, in particular, has a rich history. Ancient Greeks believed amethyst possessed the power to prevent intoxication, deriving its name from the Greek word “amethystos,” meaning “non-intoxicated.” Egyptians also utilized amethyst, incorporating it into jewelry and amulets as early as 6000 B.C. Germanic Anglo-Saxon people were also early adopters of this purple gem.
Beyond amethyst, purple hues have been prized in other gemstones. Lavender jade, a variety of jadeite, has been treasured for thousands of years in Asian cultures, valued not only for its aesthetic beauty but also for its physical properties – its ability to be intricately carved while maintaining a durable edge. Pearls exhibiting a light purple sheen have also held cultural significance, with ancient Chinese cultures believing they were formed in the brains of dragons, while others considered them solidified teardrops of the gods. Turquoise, while typically known for its blue-green shades, can also present in purple hues and has been mined since at least 6000 B.C. in ancient Egypt.
Geological Formation and Sources
The formation of purple gemstones varies depending on the mineral composition. Amethyst is a variety of quartz, colored by irradiation, iron impurities, and the presence of trace elements. The most sought-after amethyst shades, “Siberian” and “Deep Russian,” are known for their intense purple coloration. Historically, amethyst was mined in South Korea, Austria, and Russia, but Brazil is now the primary source, producing large quantities, though often of lighter color. African, Austrian, and Uruguayan amethysts tend to exhibit deeper, more saturated hues.
Tanzanite, a relatively recent discovery, is unique in that it is found in only one location worldwide: Tanzania. Its purple coloration, along with violet and blue tones, is a result of its trichroic properties. Purple garnet, often referred to as rhodolite, is a variety of garnet whose purple hue arises from the inclusion of almandine in its chemical makeup.
Purple sapphires, while rare, are formed in similar geological conditions as their blue counterparts. Their rarity is compounded by the practice of heat-treating them to achieve the more commercially desirable pink color. Purple topaz, a November birthstone, forms in igneous rocks and is known for its exceptional polish. Spinel, a modern August birthstone, derives its purple hue from trace elements like iron and chromium. Lavender jade, a prized variety of jadeite, is formed in metamorphic rocks.
Gemological Properties
The durability and suitability of purple gemstones for everyday wear vary significantly based on their hardness, as measured by the Mohs scale. Amethyst, with a hardness of 7, is well-suited for rings and bracelets. Purple topaz also boasts a hardness of 8, making it an excellent choice for daily wear. Purple tourmaline, with a hardness of 7-7.5, is similarly durable. Purple sapphire, with a hardness of 9, is among the most durable options.
Here's a comparative table of hardness for commonly found purple gemstones:
| Gemstone | Mohs Hardness | Suitability for Everyday Wear |
|---|---|---|
| Amethyst | 7 | Excellent |
| Purple Sapphire | 9 | Excellent |
| Purple Tourmaline | 7-7.5 | Excellent |
| Purple Topaz | 8 | Excellent |
| Purple Spinel | ~8 | Excellent |
| Garnet (Purple) | 6.5-7.5 | Good |
| Lavender Jade | 6-7 | Moderate |
Topaz is noted for its smooth, almost “slippery” feel when polished. Tanzanite’s trichroism, displaying purple, violet, and blue depending on the viewing angle, is a distinctive gemological property. Some sapphires exhibit a natural color-change phenomenon, appearing reddish-purple in incandescent light and blue or green in daylight.
Symbolism and Metaphysical Beliefs
Throughout history, purple gemstones have been associated with various symbolic meanings. As previously mentioned, amethyst was believed to prevent intoxication. It is also linked to Pisces and Aries astrological signs. Pearls, beyond their aesthetic appeal, were considered symbols of purity and were often associated with divine origins. Jade, particularly lavender jade, holds deep cultural significance in Asian cultures, representing serenity, wisdom, and good fortune. Turquoise, in its purple variations, continues to be valued for its protective qualities and connection to spiritual realms.
Care and Cleaning
The care required for purple gemstones depends on their hardness and durability. Amethyst, purple topaz, purple sapphire, and purple tourmaline can generally be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a soft brush. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, as these can damage some gemstones. Spinel also benefits from gentle cleaning. Jade, being relatively softer, requires more delicate handling. Avoid abrasive cleaners and excessive heat. Tanzanite, due to its sensitivity to heat, should be cleaned with lukewarm water and mild soap.
Conclusion
Purple gemstones offer a captivating spectrum of beauty, history, and symbolism. From the widely recognized amethyst to the rarer purple sapphire and tanzanite, each gem possesses unique characteristics that have captivated cultures for centuries. Their durability, ranging from excellent to moderate, allows for versatile use in jewelry, while their varied origins and geological formations contribute to their individual allure. Whether valued for their aesthetic appeal, metaphysical properties, or historical significance, purple gemstones continue to hold a special place in the world of gemology and beyond.