In 2009 Purple is the Royal Choice For Jewelry by:Ron Peterson

It's known to be President Obama's favorite color

. Up and down the spring runways in every incarnation, purple reigns as the royal color when it comes to fashion and jewelry in Spring 2009. From violet to eggplant, lavender to fuchsia, the shade is one of spring's fave hues. If you're not likely to splurge on the season's hottest, pricey fuchsia suit, why not invest in some fun purple jewelry to pair with spring's fashions. Fortunately, the rich hue looks great on nearly everyone, its tints of red and blue flattering most skin tones.

The Royal Connection

Tyrian purple, the original color from which purple gets its name was a color of dye made from a mollusk that only the very wealthy could afford, hence its association with royalty. The word "purple" comes from the ancient Greek word, "porpura," the name of the dye manufactured from the sea snail. The shade is also referred to as imperial purple. The shade of purple used during Medieval Europe was bluer than its predecessor. Referred to as royal purple, it was similar to the royal blue worn by aristocracy. Not surprisingly, purple came to represent positions of honor and valor in American history. George Washington created The Purple Heart in 1782, the military's oldest and most admired decoration.

One thing is for certain, the bold color is statement-making and perfect for those who want to make an entrance this season. It's also said to be a color that fosters peace of mind, something we could all use a little of this year.

How to Wear Purple Jewelry

Amethyst

Of course, one of the most popular types of purple jewelry is the amethyst. The beautiful gemstone is available in a variety of hues. Try a combining an amethyst pendant jewelry necklace and matching ring set in silver or amethyst tear-drop earrings. For the girl who loves to be treated like a princess, the Journey Amethyst drop pendant jewelry necklace goes beautifully with this spring's feminine fashions.

Tanzanite

Having recently made its mark in the jewelry world, tanzanite jewelry is a rare gemstone that was discovered in 1967 near Mount Kilimanjaro, a king of mountains. Its breathtaking origin is the only known mining site for tanzanite. It was introduced to the market by Tiffany & Co. in 1969. Occurring in a wide range of sizes and colors, tanzanite most often displays overtones of purple. The intensity of purple depends on the size of the stone. Smaller gems tend to be lavender, while larger tanzanite gems display deeper blues and purples. Tanzanite pendant jewelry necklaces and matching earrings in white gold are a lovely way to wear the trend. Those who want to celebrate mom as queen this Mother's Day might choose a dragonfly-designed pendant jewelry necklace or ring in tanzanite.

Purple Sapphire

Discovered in the early 19th century, the Midnight Star Sapphire is the largest violet purple sapphire in existence. Weighing in at 116.75 carats, the stone comes from Sri Lanka. Star sapphires of this color are quite rare, and a stone of this huge size is rarer still. Owned at one time by J.P. Morgan, the stone now resides at the American Museum of Natural History in New York. While such a magnificent stone may not be in the budget for most, the look of purple sapphires is replete with magnificence and royalty. Less inexpensive stones can be worn in the bold and popular right-hand ring look for a truly regal touch. Set in sterling silver, a purple sapphire ring is simply stunning. Displayed in princess-cut, purple sapphires are equally spectacular in a set of drop earrings as well. Or choose a sapphire and CZ pendant jewelry necklace set in gold for an eye-catching combination.

About the author

Lewis Jewelers is proud to carry the full line of Pandora Jewelry - bracelets, charms and beads are only a part of the collection. Contact Lewis Jewelers, 2000 West Stadium Blvd., Ann Arbor, Michigan, 48103, 877-88-LEWIS or visit http://www.LewisJewelers.com/pandora_bracelets/.

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