Gold has been treasured for millennia for its timeless beauty and value. While most people are familiar with yellow, white, and rose gold, there’s another far more unique variation: purple gold. This stunning and exotic form of gold, often referred to as amethyst gold or violet gold, captures the imagination with its rich, regal hue and intriguing properties. But what exactly is purple gold, how is it made, and how available is it?
What is Purple Gold?
Purple gold is not a dye or plating, but a real alloy of gold. Unlike other coloured gold alloys (such as rose gold, which blends gold with copper), purple gold’s striking hue results from a precise mixture of gold and aluminium. The resulting alloy is known as gold aluminide, consisting of about 79% gold and 21% aluminium, achieving its beautiful violet-purple shade.
While technically an alloy, it behaves more like a crystal, which gives purple gold a distinctive luster but also makes it more brittle compared to other gold alloys.
How is Purple Gold Made?
Creating purple gold requires a highly controlled process. Here’s an overview of how it is formed:
1. The Alloying Process: Pure gold is combined with aluminium in precise proportions. The metals are melted together to form a crystalline structure.
2. The Colour Formation: Unlike many other metals, where colour changes come from surface oxidation or minor inclusions, purple gold’s colour comes directly from its atomic structure. The formation of gold aluminide gives it a natural violet hue.
3. Cutting and Shaping: Because purple gold is more brittle than traditional gold alloys, it is not typically used for casting or extensive bending. Instead, it is often cut into specific shapes or used as decorative inlays in jewellery.
The challenge of creating this alloy with precision, along with its fragility, makes purple gold rarer and more expensive to produce.
Uses of Purple Gold
Due to its fragility, purple gold has limited applications compared to other gold alloys. However, its striking colour makes it highly desirable for decorative and statement pieces. Here’s where you might find it:
1. Fine Jewellery
Purple gold is often used in rings, pendants, earrings, and brooches. However, because it is brittle, it is usually cut into gemstones or set in ways that minimise stress on the material.
2. Inlays and Accents
To compensate for its delicate nature, purple gold is often incorporated as an accent alongside sturdier metals like yellow or white gold. This creates beautiful mixed-metal designs that highlight its vivid hue.
3. Art and Collectibles
Some designers and artists use purple gold for limited-edition items, sculptures, or collectible pieces where visual appeal is paramount.
Availability and Rarity
Purple gold is a niche product in the world of precious metals. Here’s why it remains rare:
• Difficult Production: The precise mixing and crystal formation require expert craftsmanship and specialized equipment, limiting its production.
• Fragility: Its brittle nature means it cannot be used in everyday jewellery like traditional gold. This restricts its applications and makes it less common in mainstream markets.
• Cost: Given the rarity of the alloy and the expertise required to shape it, purple gold often carries a premium price.
Because of these factors, purple gold is primarily found in high-end custom jewellery or from speciality jewellers. You are unlikely to find it in typical high-street jewellery shops.
Should You Buy Purple Gold?
If you’re looking for something unique, purple gold is an excellent choice. It’s perfect for collectors, jewellery enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a statement piece that stands out. However, due to its fragility, purple gold jewellery requires careful handling and is best reserved for special occasions rather than daily wear.
Here are a few tips if you’re considering purchasing purple gold:
• Look for Custom Creations: Most purple gold pieces are custom-made, so work with a jeweller experienced in handling this alloy.
• Choose Accents Over Large Pieces: For durability, opt for designs where purple gold is used as an inlay or accent rather than the primary structure.
• Handle With Care: Store your purple gold pieces separately and avoid rough wear or contact with hard surfaces.
Conclusion
Purple gold is a marvel of metallurgy, combining the luxury of gold with a breathtaking violet hue that’s as rare as it is beautiful. While its fragility makes it unsuitable for everyday jewellery, its unique properties make it a prized choice for artistic designs and special pieces. If you’re seeking jewellery that’s both rare and regal, purple gold might just be the perfect choice to add to your collection.