Purple South Red? A Rare Review of “Baoshan Ice Purple”
Introduction: Why I Conducted This Self-Funded Review
Several years ago, a type of purple agate, marketed as “Baoshan Ice Purple”, appeared on the gemstone market. Sellers claimed it was exclusively mined from Pupu Township in Baoshan, Yunnan, promoting it as rare and highly valuable. In recent years, the supply of such stones has increased, yet their quality and treatment methods vary widely. Many samples on the market clearly show signs of dyeing or other enhancements.
To clarify the facts, I purchased multiple specimens out of pocket. I compared them with natural Brazilian purple agate and ice-float South Red agate, observing them under the same conditions. In addition, I sent one specimen to a laboratory for infrared (FTIR) and spectroscopic testing. Below are the observations and conclusions.
Samples and Comparisons of Baoshan Ice Purple and Brazilian Purple Agate
Specimens
- Several cabochons and slices labeled by sellers as “Baoshan Ice Purple agate ”(purchased independently from different vendors).
- One specimen submitted for laboratory FTIR/spectral analysis.
Comparison Stones
- Natural Brazilian purple agate (untreated reference).
- Ice-float South Red agate (with known origin and natural characteristics).
Purpose
By comparing under identical conditions, I aimed to observe differences in color, microstructure, UV fluorescence, and tactile properties.
Key Testing Items and Observations: Baoshan Ice Purple vs. Brazilian Purple Agate
1. Color of Baoshan Ice Purple Agate and Brazilian Purple Agate (Naked Eye and Under Light)
- Baoshan Ice Purple : Deep, rich purple with a heavy tone.
- Brazilian Purple Agate: Softer and lighter color. After heat or dye treatment, Brazilian agate often appears more vivid, but lacks the same “density.”
Conclusion: A darker color does not necessarily indicate natural origin. Uniform, intense purple tones may result from either natural formation or dyeing/optimization.
2. Transparency and Microstructure of Baoshan Ice Purple and Brazilian Purple Agate
Observation of Transparency and Microscopic Structure of Baoshan Ice Purple
Observation of Transparency and Microscopic Structure of Brazilian Purple Agate
- Baoshan Ice Purple Agate: Magnification reveals white, cotton-like inclusions and lacks the typical cryptocrystalline texture.
- Brazilian Purple Agate: Shows typical cryptocrystalline structure with occasional natural banding.
- Ice-Float South Red: Distinct cinnabar spots are visible.
Note: If fissures or voids contain bubbles, milky residues, or cotton-like materials, resin filling should be suspected.
3. UV Fluorescence (365 nm)
- Baoshan Ice Purple: Strong fluorescence with an oily appearance.
- Comparisons: Brazilian purple agate and ice-float South Red show no obvious fluorescence.
Interpretation: Strong fluorescence often suggests filling or dyeing, though it is not absolute proof. It must be verified with microscopy and advanced testing.
4. Tactile Properties
- Baoshan Ice Purple: Feels waxy and slightly sticky when rubbed.
- Natural Agate/South Red: Feels cool, smooth, and without stickiness.
Conclusion: Surface touch can be a useful indicator but should not serve as standalone evidence.
Preliminary Conclusion and Lab Submission: Baoshan Ice Purple Agate Analysis
Based on naked-eye observations, magnification, UV fluorescence, and tactile tests, some Baoshan Ice Purple Agate samples likely show signs of resin filling. Whether they have also been dyed or heat-treated requires further FTIR, Raman, and elemental testing. One specimen has already been submitted, and results will be shared later.
Can “Baoshan Ice Purple Agate ” Be Considered South Red?
National Standards and Naming
- According to GB/T 16552-2017 (Gemstone Nomenclature) and GB/T 34098-2017 (Quartzite Jade Classification), South Red is a commercial term under the quartz-jade family, not a strict mineralogical category.
Conclusion: Whether it qualifies as South Red depends on mineral composition, internal structure, and evidence of treatment—not merely origin or color.
Core Identification Features of South Red
- The presence of cinnabar spots (hematite particles) is a key marker of South Red agate.
- If a specimen lacks cinnabar spots but shows strong fluorescence and filling signs, its identity as South Red is questionable. It may belong to marginal categories or be another type of agate.
Origin and Market Naming
- Agate and South Red deposits do exist in Pupiao Township, Baoshan.
- However, the current market for “Baoshan Ice Purple” includes both a small number of natural stones and a large number of dyed or imitation products.
Market Risks and Buying Advice (For International Buyers)
Common Enhancement Techniques
- Resin Filling: Injecting resin into fissures to improve appearance.
- Dyeing/HeTable from China National Standard GB/T 16552-2017 showing official gemstone names and classifications.ating: Using chemicals or heat to intensify color.
How Buyers Can Protect Themselves
When purchasing across borders, especially in Europe or North America, it is recommended to:
- Ask sellers for 365 nm UV light test videos (close-up, multiple angles).
- Request 50–100x microscopic images to check for bubbles or milky residues in fissures.
- Demand certificates from recognized labs (NGTC, GIA, GRS), verifying whether resin filling, dyeing, or heat treatment has been detected.
- Insist on return/refund guarantees to prevent disputes.
Practical Phrase to Copy and Send to Sellers:
“Please provide a 365 nm UV test video (close-up, multi-angle), a 50x microscopic image, and a certificate from an authoritative laboratory (stating whether filling, dyeing, or heat treatment was detected).”
Conclusion and Outlook
At present, some Baoshan Ice Purple samples exhibit signs of resin filling or other treatments. However, final confirmation requires laboratory FTIR and Raman testing.
Whether it can be classified as South Red depends on the presence of cinnabar spots, mineral composition, and test results—not merely the seller’s claims or place of origin.
Buyers should always request lab certificates or return guarantees to minimize risks.
Next Step: Once lab results are available, I will publish the infrared and Raman spectra with conclusions.
Quick Takeaways
- Market supply of Baoshan Ice Purple is increasing, but quality varies widely.
- Observed features: deep color, cotton-like inclusions, strong UV fluorescence, waxy feel.
- Some samples likely show resin filling.
- Identification of South Red relies on cinnabar spots, not just color or location.
- Buyers should demand UV tests, microscopic images, and authoritative certificates—plus return guarantees if needed.
Final Note
The gemstone market is full of beauty but also complexity. Whether you’re exploring Baoshan Ice Purple or classic South Red, careful testing and informed choices matter most.
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