The color most often associated with royalty is purple.
Why Purple Represents Royalty
Purple's association with royalty stems from its historical rarity and cost.
Historical Significance
- Rarity of Dye: In ancient times, purple dye was incredibly difficult and expensive to produce. It was derived from certain types of sea snails, and the process required thousands of snails to create a small amount of dye. This made purple fabric incredibly exclusive.
- Reserved for the Elite: Because of its cost, only the wealthiest and most powerful individuals, including royalty and emperors, could afford to wear purple. This exclusivity led to its association with nobility. According to contemporary surveys in Europe and the United States, purple is the color most often associated with rarity, royalty, luxury, ambition, magic, mystery, piety and spirituality.
Modern Associations
While purple dye is now readily available, the historical connection remains strong. Purple continues to evoke feelings of:
- Luxury
- Power
- Ambition
- Mystery
