In memory of the American singer Prince, the Pantone Color Institute has developed the new colour ‘Love Symbol #2’. With this lush purple tone, the institute posthumously honours the artist who achieved one of his greatest hits with ‘Purple Rain’ in 1984. Since then, violet has been inseparably associated with the musician, glamourous and passionate as he was. “The color purple was synonymous with who Prince was and will always be”, said Troy Carter, entertainment adviser to Prince’ estate.

Fans of this unforgettable musician can now rejoice: the gemstone purple sapphire brings out the shine in this new Pantone hue in an impressive way. Having said that, anyone wishing to acquire one is going to have to dig fairly deep into his pocket, as this stone – just like the pop legend of whom it reminds us – is a genuine rarity.

Sapphires are regarded as exquisite gemstones with many colour variants from sky blue to deep dark blue. The purple sapphire is a particularly rare variety. Many people have never even heard of this stone. Each purple sapphire is unique and much coveted, not only among collectors.