Purple pigments and dyes can be derived from various natural sources, such as plants, animals, and minerals. Some examples of natural purple sources are: • Murex: A type of sea snail that produces a purple secretion used to make Tyrian purple, the most expensive and prestigious dye in ancient times. • Purple gromwell: A plant native to eastern Asia that produces a purple dye used in China and Japan. • Lichen: A symbiotic organism composed of algae and fungi that produces a purple dye known as orchil or litmus. • Amethyst: A variety of quartz mineral that has a purple hue due to iron impurities or irradiation. • Anthocyanins: A group of pigments found in fruits, vegetables, and flowers that give them a purple color. Examples include blueberries, grapes, eggplants, and violets.