Crystal violet or gentian violet, also known as methyl violet 10B or hexamethyl pararosaniline chloride, is a triarylmethane dye used as a histological stain and in Gram’s method of classifying bacteria. Crystal violet has antibacterial, antifungal, and anthelmintic (vermicide) properties and was formerly important as a topical antiseptic. The medical use of the dye has been largely superseded by more modern drugs, although it is still listed by the World Health Organization.The name gentian violet was originally used for a mixture of methyl pararosaniline dyes (methyl violet), but is now often considered a synonym for crystal violet. The name refers to its colour, being like that of the petals of certain gentian flowers; it is not made from gentians or violets.

---

Crystal Violet 96% AR refers to Crystal Violet (CAS 548-62-9), a dark green powder with 96% purity, suitable for analytical or research (AR) applications. It is a basic dye used in Gram staining to differentiate bacteria, as a cell viability stain, and for dyeing wood, silk, and paper. The “AR” designation indicates a specific grade of purity, while “96%” signifies its minimum purity level, common in laboratory chemicals.