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Purple, The Royal One
During ancient times, one of the most expensive materials in terms of both rarity and monetary value pertained to a bromine-containing reddish-purple natural dye obtained from the murex shells. In fact, the craze for the dyes was so widespread, especially among the royalty, nobles and rich merchants, that even other cheaper alternatives with the purplish hue were costly and beyond the reach of common folks. This inspired many Persian royals to hoard purple-tinted clothes that were given as gifts to higher ranked officials.
