BASIC VIOLET 3- ▸ Biological staining: laboratory biological stain
- ▸ pH indicator: indicator across pH 0.8 to 2.6
- ▸ Dyeing: violet dye for wood, silk and paper
- ▸ Inks: colorant for inks
A grade-specific Safety Data Sheet (SDS) — with the complete hazard classification, handling precautions, and transport information — is supplied with every shipment and available on request. Confirm all safety and regulatory details against the SDS for your specific grade.
Request SDS →Gentian violet (crystal violet; C.I. Basic Violet 3; CAS 548-62-9) is a triarylmethane basic dye. It is used as a dye for wood, silk and paper, as a colorant in inks, as a biological stain, and as a pH indicator across the range 0.8 to 2.6.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is gentian violet used for?
Gentian violet (crystal violet; C.I. Basic Violet 3; CAS 548-62-9) is used as a laboratory biological stain, as a pH indicator across the range 0.8 to 2.6, as a violet dye for wood, silk, and paper, and as a colorant in inks.
Is gentian violet the same as crystal violet?
Yes. Gentian violet is another name for crystal violet, a triarylmethane basic dye (C25H30ClN3). USP-grade material is supplied to that compendial specification.
Is gentian violet an indicator?
Yes. It functions as a pH indicator across the range of approximately 0.8 to 2.6, and is also widely used as a biological stain (for example in Gram staining). Performance depends on grade and application conditions.
What is the CAS number and HS code for gentian violet?
Gentian violet (crystal violet, C.I. Basic Violet 3) is CAS 548-62-9, classified under HS 3204.13. Reference these on RFQs and customs paperwork for correct identity and tariff treatment.
What bulk packaging and documentation are available?
USP-grade gentian violet is supplied as a powder; request a bulk quote for available pack sizes and order quantities. An SDS and Certificate of Analysis accompany each shipment.