7 Violet Gemstones That Will Enchant You With Their Beauty

The captivating allure of violet gemstones has captivated hearts and imaginations for centuries. From the regal amethyst to the enigmatic tanzanite, each violet hue whispers a unique tale of beauty and mystery. In this comprehensive guide, we unveil the mesmerizing world of 7 violet gemstones, exploring their captivating properties, historical significance, and enchanting applications.

1. Amethyst: The Purple Gem of Royalty

Amethyst, a captivating quartz gemstone, reigns as the birthstone of February. Its ethereal purple hues, ranging from pale lavender to deep violet, have adorned crowns and scepters of royalty throughout history. Ancient Greeks and Romans believed that amethyst possessed the power to prevent intoxication and promote clarity of mind.

• Hardness: 7 on the Mohs scale
• Chemical composition: Silicon dioxide (SiO₂)
• Primary sources: Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia

2. Tanzanite: The Gemstone of a Single Source

Tanzanite, a captivating violet-blue gemstone, is found exclusively in the Merelani Hills of Tanzania. Its discovery in 1967 sent shockwaves through the gemstone world, sparking an unprecedented demand for its captivating beauty. Tanzanite's intense hue is attributed to the presence of vanadium impurities.

• Hardness: 6.5 on the Mohs scale
• Chemical composition: Calcium aluminum silicate (Ca₂Al₃(SiO₄)₂(OH)₂)
• Primary source: Merelani Hills, Tanzania

3. Iolite: The Water Sapphire

Iolite, a captivating violet-blue gemstone, is also known as the "water sapphire" due to its resemblance to the precious blue stone. Its ethereal hue is caused by the presence of iron impurities. Iolite was once used by Viking navigators as a polarizing filter, allowing them to locate the sun on cloudy days.

• Hardness: 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale
• Chemical composition: Magnesium aluminum silicate (Mg₂Al₄Si₅O₁₈)
• Primary sources: Madagascar, India, Sri Lanka

4. Charoite: The Gemstone of Love

Charoite, a captivating lilac-purple gemstone, is found exclusively in the Murun Mountains of Siberia. Its swirling patterns and vibrant hues make it a highly sought-after gemstone for jewelry and ornamental pieces. Charoite is believed to possess healing properties, promoting love, compassion, and inner peace.

• Hardness: 5-6 on the Mohs scale
• Chemical composition: Potassium sodium calcium silicate (K(Na,Ca)₄Si₆O₁₅(OH,F)₂)
• Primary source: Murun Mountains, Siberia

5. Kunzite: The Gemstone of Love

Kunzite, a captivating light violet gemstone, is named after the renowned gemologist George Frederick Kunz. Its delicate hue is caused by the presence of manganese impurities. Kunzite is believed to possess calming and soothing properties, making it a popular choice for metaphysical jewelry.

• Hardness: 6.5-7 on the Mohs scale
• Chemical composition: Lithium aluminum silicate (LiAlSi₂O₆)
• Primary sources: Brazil, Afghanistan, Madagascar

6. Sugilite: The Gemstone of Spirituality

Sugilite, a captivating violet-purple gemstone, is found primarily in South Africa. Its rich hue is attributed to the presence of manganese impurities. Sugilite is believed to possess powerful spiritual properties, promoting connection with higher powers and self-awareness.

• Hardness: 6-7 on the Mohs scale
• Chemical composition: Potassium sodium lithium iron manganese silicate (KNa₂Li₃Fe²⁺Mn²⁺Si₁₂O₃₀)
• Primary source: South Africa

7. Lepidolite: The Gemstone of Transformation

Lepidolite, a captivating violet-gray gemstone, is a member of the mica family. Its gentle hue is caused by the presence of lithium impurities. Lepidolite is believed to possess calming and transformative properties, promoting emotional balance and aiding in personal growth.

• Hardness: 2.5-3 on the Mohs scale
• Chemical composition: Potassium lithium aluminum silicate (KLi₂AlSi₃O₁₀(OH,F)₂)
• Primary sources: Brazil, Afghanistan, Madagascar

Violet Gemstones in Jewelry and Ornamental Objects

Violet gemstones have captivated the hearts of jewelry designers for centuries. Their unique hues and spiritual properties make them a popular choice for engagement rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. They are also coveted for their use in ornamental objects, such as sculptures, vases, and decorative pieces.

Investment Potential of Violet Gemstones

The value of violet gemstones varies depending on factors such as color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. While some violet gemstones, such as amethyst, are relatively affordable, others, like tanzanite and sugilite, can command high prices. Investing in violet gemstones can be a rewarding endeavor for collectors and investors alike.

Violet Gemstones and Feng Shui

In Feng Shui, the ancient Chinese art of placement, violet gemstones are associated with the element of water. They are believed to promote tranquility, harmony, and spiritual growth. Violet gemstones are often placed in areas of the home or office that require these qualities.

New Applications for Violet Gemstones

As technology advances, new and innovative applications for violet gemstones are emerging. Researchers are exploring the use of violet gemstones in lasers, solar cells, and other optical devices. The unique properties of violet gemstones make them promising candidates for a wide range of technological applications.

Table 1: Violet Gemstone Properties

Table 2: Violet Gemstone Sources

Table 3: Violet Gemstone Prices

Table 4: Violet Gemstone Feng Shui Applications