Every year, the Pantone colour institute reveal their colour of the year. They recently announced that the 2018 colour of the year is PANTONE 18-3838 Ultra Violet, an exciting shade from the purple people family.
Purple hues have long been found to hold energising properties, often used in the decor of Spas and the lighting of meditation rooms. Boots the Chemist, redesigned their stores back in the late 1990’s with a pale lavender accent throughout, all because purple is supposed to be a colour which not only calms but evokes consumerism in people.
Purple is also said to have mystical qualities – remember seeing violet coloured wizard costumes in many books and films? Ironically it’s also supposed to signify ecclesiastical dignity. Catholic bishops used to wear purple amethyst rings which they would kiss, believing the stones would prevent mystical intoxication.
Purple Amethyst are said to stimulate, and soothe, the mind and emotions. These semi-precious stones are the traditional birthstone of February and also the stone of St. Valentine and faithful love, so get down to our store and get beading because love is in the air next week and nothing says I love you like a hand crafted gift.
At Riverside Beads we use energising amethyst stones and violet crystals all the time to create stunning, eye catching pieces, as well as having hundreds of other violet hued beads in stone, acrylic and glass available. There’s going to be a purple haze in the high street fashion stores, so make sure you’ve stocked up on this year’s trend setting stones, beads and cords.
In other news we were over the (mystical purple) moon to receive a Highly Commended award from the International Craft Awards 2017 in the category for Best Local Independent Store in the Midlands. Thank you to each and every one of our lovely customers who took the time to nominate us and to vote for us.