Pay in installments of $5.50 with
,
and
Shipping Estimate
USA
- USA
- CAN
- USA
- CAN
Ships within 48 hours · Estimated delivery Jul 17 - Jul 22
Promo Codes Available:
For Your Every Summer RSVP, with Code: SUMMER15
Description
Murasaki Root Pieces (Lithospermum erythrorhizon) VioletAlso known as Purple Gromwell, shikon (Japanese), zi cao (Chinese). DescriptionMurasaki is one of Japans most ancient and revered natural dyes, derived from the roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon. Used since the Nara period (710794 CE), it produces extraordinary purples that were once considered a forbidden color (kinjiki), reserved for the Imperial family and the highest ranking officials. These dried roots yield a spectrum from soft lilacs to deep
Also known as Purple Gromwell, shikon (Japanese), zi cao (Chinese).
Description
Murasaki is one of Japan’s most ancient and revered natural dyes, derived from the roots of Lithospermum erythrorhizon. Used since the Nara period (710–794 CE), it produces extraordinary purples that were once considered a “forbidden color” (kinjiki), reserved for the Imperial family and the highest-ranking officials.
These dried roots yield a spectrum from soft lilacs to deep imperial purples, depending on pH and mordant. More than just a dye, murasaki represents the aesthetics of classical Japan, where purple embodied nobility, refinement, and spiritual depth.
Historical Note
In ancient Japanese court culture, purple garments signified status and authority. The painstaking process of dyeing with murasaki ( requiring delicate cold extractions and skillful handling) made it one of the rarest and most prestigious colors of the Heian and Edo periods. The plant was also prized in traditional medicine, and its pigment continues to be studied today for its unique chemistry.
Active Dye Components
- Shikonin
- Acetylshikonin
CI Colour Name
Closest family: CI Natural Violet 1
Shading Tips
- Alum mordant: lilac to mid purples
- Alkaline extraction: deep violets and bluish purples
- Iron mordant: sombre grey-purples and eggplant tones
- Overdye with indigo: rich, near-black purples
- Sensitive to pH shifts — slight acidity gives redder hues, alkalinity pushes bluer tones
Light fastness: moderate — handle with care, avoid prolonged sun exposure.
Source
Sustainably sourced in small quantities. Suitable for experienced dyers seeking rare, historic colours.
Shipping Notes
- Free Standard Shipping on $100+ Orders to the USA.
- Except Preorder products are shipped in 48 hours.
- Delivery to the USA:
- Standard Shipping : 3-10 business days
- If time is of the essence, please consider selecting expedited delivery for faster service.
Exchange/Return Notes
- We offer a 30-day return/exchange service after receiving.
- Final sale items are not eligible for returns or exchanges.
- To process your return/exchange, please contact us at [email protected]
- Please click here for more details>>> Return & Exchange Policy