Gemstones

Top 13 Purple Gemstones: Know Their Beauty and Value

Aryan K | January 15, 2025

top 12 purple gemstones

Looking for purple gemstones? This article highlights 13 of the most beautiful and valuable ones. Discover their unique traits and why they stand out in jewelry and collections.

Key Takeaways

  • Amethyst stands out as the most popular purple gemstone, known for its versatility, rich color, and affordability, making it ideal for a range of jewelry.

  • Purple sapphires excel in durability and elegance, often valued for their unique shades and rare natural color-change phenomenon, making them a prized choice for engagement rings.

  • Tanzanite’s captivating trichroism allows it to showcase a blend of colors, with its value dependent on the dominant hue, making it a mesmerizing addition to any jewelry collection.

1. Amethyst: The Quintessential Purple Gemstone

amethyst quintessential purple gemstone

Amethyst Purple Gemstone is the crown jewel among the most popular purple gemstones, known for its rich violet color and versatility in jewelry. Cherished for centuries, this gemstone is valued for both its beauty and symbolic significance. Amethyst crystals can form in large sizes with eye-clean clarity, ideal for various jewelry pieces from rings to pendants.

A fascinating aspect of amethyst is its bicolored form known as ametrine. This variant showcases a stunning blend of purple and yellow hues, creating a mesmerizing effect that collectors and jewelry makers alike highly sought after. The contrasting colors within a single stone enhance its allure and uniqueness.

Amethyst’s deep purple hue is often associated with royalty and luxury, making it a favorite choice for high-end jewelry. Its affordability compared to other beautiful stones keeps it popular for both casual wear and special occasions. Whether set in silver or gold, amethyst’s beautiful color and durability make it a timeless gemstone that continues to captivate hearts worldwide.

Amethyst, the captivating birthstone for February, is a variety of mineral quartz prized for its rich purple hues that range from light lavender to deep violet. This gemstone is associated with the zodiac signs of Aquarius (January 20 - February 18) and Pisces (February 19 - March 20), embodying qualities of clarity, peace, and balance. With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, Amethyst is durable and ideal for various shapes like round, oval, and pear cuts. Its value, often measured per carat, makes it an affordable yet luxurious option for jewelry. Found in shades of purple that can display zoning, Amethyst is revered for its versatility and spiritual significance, symbolizing tranquility and wisdom. Perfect for enhancing jewelry collections, this gemstone offers timeless beauty and elegance.

2. Purple Sapphire: Durable and Elegant

purple sapphire

Purple sapphires are a testament to the elegance and durability that gemstones can offer. The enchanting purple color in these sapphires is primarily due to the combination of iron, titanium, and chromium impurities, with vanadium also playing a significant role in some cases. These elements create a spectrum of purple shades, from light lavender to deep violet, making each purple pink sapphire unique.

One of the standout features of purple sapphires is their exceptional hardness. With a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale, these gems are incredibly tough and suitable for everyday wear. This durability makes them excellent for engagement rings and other frequently worn jewelry pieces. However, it’s worth noting that many purple sapphires undergo heat treatment to enhance their color, sometimes changing to a pink hue.

In rare cases, purple sapphires exhibit a natural color change phenomenon, enhancing their rarity and value. This unique trait, along with the potential presence of minor inclusions known as ‘silk’ that give the gemstone a velvety appearance, makes purple sapphires a prized possession for gem collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.

When compared to other colors, natural purple sapphires are generally more valued, often fetching prices close to the highly sought-after blue sapphires. Their beautiful color and robustness make them a timeless addition to any jewelry collection, embodying both elegance and practicality.

Purple Sapphire, a rare and enchanting variety of corundum, captivates gemstone enthusiasts with its regal hues ranging from soft lavender to deep violet. Known for its exceptional durability with a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, this gemstone is perfect for everyday wear in various shapes such as oval, cushion, and emerald cuts. Its rich shades of purple are influenced by trace amounts of vanadium in its mineral composition, making each stone uniquely beautiful.

Purple Sapphire is often associated with wisdom, creativity, and spiritual growth, making it a meaningful choice for both jewelry and personal symbolism. Its value, determined per carat, varies depending on the intensity of color, clarity, and origin. Mined in regions like Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and Tanzania, these exquisite gemstones are highly sought after by collectors and jewelers alike. A stunning alternative to more common sapphires, the Purple Sapphire exudes sophistication and individuality, perfect for those seeking a unique gemstone with timeless appeal.

3. Tanzanite: A Symphony of Colors

Tanzanite truly embodies a symphony of colors. Typically displaying a blend of purple, violet, and blue, tanzanite’s unique optical phenomenon known as trichroism allows it to show different colors depending on the viewing angle. This captivating play of colors makes tanzanite a favorite among gem enthusiasts and collectors.

The value of violet-purple gemstone tanzanite is significantly influenced by the dominant color it displays. Stones that exhibit a stronger blue hue are generally more valuable, though the deep purple stones and violet shades are equally mesmerizing. Factors such as color intensity, greater saturation levels, and tone also play crucial roles in determining the market value of tanzanite, with more vivid colors being highly desirable.

Tanzanite’s color-changing ability depending on the light source adds surprise and wonder to any jewelry piece. Whether set in a ring, pendant, or earrings, tanzanite’s striking colors and unique properties make it a standout choice for those looking to add a touch of magic to their jewelry collection.

4. Purple Tourmaline: Affordable and Attractive

Purple tourmaline is celebrated for its remarkable durability and affordability, making it a popular choice for various jewelry pieces. This gemstone is available in a range of purple shades, from light lavender to deep violet, catering to different preferences and styles.

Purple gemstone tourmaline’s clarity can vary significantly, catering to different budgets. Whether you’re looking for a high-clarity stone for a special occasion or a more affordable option for everyday wear, purple tourmaline provides a versatile and attractive solution.

Its vibrant color and robust nature ensure that it remains a cherished addition to any jewelry collection. Purple Tourmaline, also known as Siberite, is celebrated for its vibrant hues, exceptional durability, and affordability, making it a sought-after gemstone for a wide range of jewelry. This stunning gemstone is available in a variety of shades of purple, from soft lavender to rich violet, catering to diverse preferences and styles.

A Birthstone of Significance: While not traditionally recognized as a primary birthstone, Purple Tourmaline is associated with individuals born under the zodiac sign Scorpio (October 23 - November 21) and is often connected to the energy of spiritual growth and creativity. Its radiant purple hues symbolize wisdom, peace, and intuition, making it a meaningful gift for those seeking balance and clarity in their lives.

Clarity and Budget Options: Purple Tourmaline’s clarity ranges widely, offering options for every budget. Highly transparent stones with minimal inclusions are ideal for elegant statement pieces, while slightly included gems provide affordable yet beautiful options for everyday wear. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for both collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

Durability and Jewelry Versatility: With a hardness of 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale, Purple Tourmaline is robust enough for regular wear in various settings, including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Its vibrant color and durability ensure that it remains a cherished addition to any jewelry collection

5. Purple Garnet: A Birthstone Favorite

purple garnet

Purple gemstone garnet, often called rhodolite, holds a special place in the world of birthstones. Belonging to the Pyrope Garnet family, this gemstone is known for its beautiful purple color, which can range from a delicate lavender to a rich violet. Its unique hue makes it a standout choice among garnets and a favorite for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

As January’s birthstone, purple garnet carries significance and tradition. Its durability, while not as high as that of sapphires, is still commendable, making it suitable for various types of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, and earrings. Its appealing color and meaningful symbolism make it a treasured gift for January-born individuals.

Purple gemstone garnet’s allure lies in its beauty and tradition. Its rich color and historical significance ensure that it remains a popular choice for both everyday wear and special occasions, adding a touch of elegance and personal connection to any purple pink jewelry piece.

6. Purple Gemstone Spinel: An Underrated Beauty

Often flying under the radar, purple spinel offers stunning tones and saturations that rival more well-known gems. From light to dark shades and pale to intense saturations, purple spinel provides a diverse palette that appeals to a wide range of tastes.

As August’s birthstone, purple gemstone spinel holds a special place in the hearts of those born in this month. Its affordability compared to other purple gemstones makes it an attractive option for those seeking beauty without breaking the bank. Moreover, its durability allows it to withstand everyday wear, ensuring that it remains a cherished part of any jewelry collection for years to come.

The understated elegance of purple gemstone spinel, combined with its practical benefits and affordability, makes it a gemstone worth considering. Whether set in a ring, pendant, or earrings, purple spinel’s versatility and beauty are sure to impress.

7. Lavender Jade: Rare and Revered

Lavender jade, a rare and revered purple gemstone, is the second most valuable variety of jadeite after the iconic green jade. Its unique lavender hue and aesthetic properties make it highly desirable among collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.

Collectors typically prefer deeper colors in lavender jade, which enhance the gemstone’s value and appeal. Lavender jade’s transparency ranges from semi-transparent to opaque, adding to its mystique and charm. Its rarity and beauty make lavender jade a prized possession, often passed down through generations as a symbol of elegance and prestige.

The allure of lavender jade lies in its combination of rarity, beauty, and historical significance. Its deep, mesmerizing color and varied transparency make it a gemstone that captures the imagination and adds a touch of luxury to any jewelry collection.

8. Purple Topaz: November's Alternative Birthstone

Purple Gemstone topaz is a versatile and durable gemstone, celebrated as an alternative birthstone for November. With a hardness score of 8, it is suitable for daily wear, making it a practical choice for various jewelry pieces. This durability ensures that purple topaz remains a cherished part of any jewelry collection for years to come.

Topaz comes in various colors, including yellow, red, orange, blue, and purple. Purple topaz is particularly admired for its unique color and durability, offering a beautiful alternative to traditional birthstones. Its vibrant hue and robust nature make it an appealing choice for those looking to add a touch of elegance to their jewelry collection.

9. Kunzite: Light Purple Elegance

Kunzite exudes light purple elegance, typically displaying a violetish purple color. Its crystals often exceed 1,000 carats, making kunzite a striking choice for large, statement jewelry pieces.

One of the appealing aspects of kunzite is its low price-per-carat, which allows jewelry enthusiasts to enjoy its beauty without a hefty price tag. However, kunzite is sensitive to light and heat, with exposure potentially causing its color to fade. To maintain its vibrant hue, it is essential to store kunzite in cool, dark conditions.

Kunzite’s delicate appearance and affordability make it a popular choice for those seeking a unique and beautiful gemstone. Its large crystal sizes and light purple color add a touch of sophistication to any jewelry collection, especially when featuring purple kunzite.

10. Purple Scapolite: Fluorescent and Unique

Purple scapolite stands out for its unique fluorescent properties and charming colors. With a hardness rating of 5.5 to 6, it is softer compared to many other gemstones, necessitating careful handling and protective settings in jewelry. Despite this, its range of colors, from violet to brownish, makes it an attractive choice for those seeking something different.

Purple gemstone scapolite’s ability to fluoresce under UV light, showcasing strong pink, yellow, or orange hues, is one of its most fascinating features. This unique trait adds an element of surprise and intrigue to any jewelry piece, making it a conversation starter. When wearing purple scapolite jewelry, it is important to handle it with care to prevent damage.

Purple scapolite’s distinctive fluorescence and range of colors capture the imagination. Its unique properties and charming appearance ensure that it remains a treasured addition to any purple stone jewelry collection.

11. Sugilite: Vibrant and Versatile

Sugilite is known for its vibrant and versatile purple hues. With undertones that may include violet, red, or bluish shades, sugilite can range from translucent to opaque. Its striking ‘grape jelly purple’ appearance is highly distinctive, and it is commonly cut into cabochons or beads rather than faceted pieces.

This purple gemstone is also associated with various metaphysical properties, including emotional healing, enhancing spiritual growth, and activating the crown chakra. These attributes add to its appeal, making it a popular choice for those interested in the spiritual and healing aspects of gemstones. To maintain sugilite’s vibrant color, it is essential to avoid exposure to harsh chemicals.

Sugilite’s vibrant color and metaphysical properties make it versatile and cherished. Its unique appearance and spiritual significance ensure that it remains a favorite among gem enthusiasts and collectors.

12. Charoite: Multicolored Marvel

Charoite truly captivates with its multicolored marvel. Exhibiting swirls of lilac, violet, and purple often accompanied by white, black, orange, and brown patches, charoite’s distinctive patterns are a visual feast. This complex interplay of colors is a result of its unique chemical composition, primarily consisting of potassium, calcium, and silicon.

The stone’s opaque to semi-translucent nature, combined with a hardness rating of about 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale, makes it suitable for various jewelry applications, though it requires careful handling. Charoite’s artistic and intricate appearance often evokes comparisons to abstract paintings, making each piece a unique work of art.

Found exclusively in the Murun Mountain Range of Siberia, Russia, charoite’s rarity adds to its allure. Discovered in 1948 but only scientifically recognized in 1977, this gemstone has quickly gained a reputation for its extraordinary beauty and unique patterns. Charoite’s exclusivity and visual appeal make it a prized addition to any gem collection.

13. Purple Fluorite: Collector's Gem

Purple fluorite is a gemstone cherished by collectors for its delicate beauty and fragility. Due to its softness and perfect cleavage, purple fluorite requires careful handling and specific protective settings in jewelry to prevent damage. These characteristics make it more suitable for collectors rather than everyday wear.

This gem ranges in transparency from fully transparent to completely opaque, offering a variety of appearances that cater to different tastes. Its stunning purple gem hue, often accompanied by other minerals, adds to its visual appeal and uniqueness.

Purple fluorite’s captivating color and delicate nature make it a standout piece when set in jewelry. However, due to its fragility, it is best appreciated in collections where it can be admired without the risk of damage. Its ethereal beauty and collector’s value make purple fluorite a gem worth cherishing.

Summary for Purple gemstones

In summary, the world of purple gemstones is as diverse as it is enchanting. From the quintessential amethyst with its rich violet hues to the durable and elegant purple sapphire, each gemstone offers unique characteristics and beauty. Tanzanite dazzles with its trichroism, while purple tourmaline and purple garnet provide affordable and attractive options for jewelry enthusiasts.

The underrated beauty of purple spinel, the rare and revered lavender jade, and the versatile purple topaz each add their own charm to the collection. Kunzite’s light purple elegance, purple scapolite’s fluorescent uniqueness, and sugilite’s vibrant versatility further enrich the spectrum of purple gems. Charoite stands out with its multicolored marvel, and purple fluorite captivates as a collector’s gem.

These gemstones not only possess stunning visual appeal but also hold significant value and meaning. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or new to the world of gemstones, the beauty, durability, and variety of purple gemstones offer something for everyone. Embrace the allure of purple gems and let their enchanting hues add a touch of elegance and mystery to your jewelry collection.

Explore our gemstone suggestion tool to discover the perfect gemstone tailored to your birth chart, aligning cosmic energies with your personal style.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are purple sapphires highly valued?

Purple sapphires are highly valued for their exceptional hardness, scoring a 9 on the Mohs scale, making them one of the most durable gemstones, ideal for everyday wear. Their striking color variations, ranging from soft lavender to deep royal purple, result from trace elements like vanadium in their mineral composition.

Unlike purple diamonds, which are rare and costly, purple sapphires offer an accessible yet equally stunning alternative. They share the durability of blue sapphires while showcasing a unique and regal hue that sets them apart. This blend of beauty, versatility, and resilience makes purple sapphires a popular choice for engagement rings, pendants, and other jewelry. Their ability to combine elegance and practicality ensures they remain a cherished gemstone for generations.

What is unique about deep purple tanzanite's color properties?

Deep purple Tanzanite is celebrated for its remarkable trichroic properties, meaning it displays three distinct colors—blue, violet, and burgundy—when viewed from different angles, creating a mesmerizing play of hues. This unique optical phenomenon adds depth and dimension to the gemstone, making it highly sought after by collectors and jewelers alike.

The intensity of the deep purple tones, often complemented by flashes of blue, enhances its value and allure, especially in larger stones or finely cut pieces. Cabochons of Tanzanite, which emphasize its smooth surface and color saturation, are particularly admired for showcasing its trichroic beauty.

Tanzanite is also fashioned into beads, allowing its captivating hues to be appreciated in dynamic jewelry designs like necklaces and bracelets. Additionally, its versatility in shapes, from round and oval to cushion and pear cuts, ensures that Tanzanite suits a variety of settings and styles. This interplay of color and adaptability makes deep purple Tanzanite a unique treasure in the world of gemstones.

How should kunzite be stored to maintain its color?

To preserve the purple color and vibrancy of Kunzite, it is essential to store it carefully in a cool, dark place, away from direct light and heat sources. Prolonged exposure to sunlight or intense artificial light can cause this delicate gemstone to fade over time.

For added protection, consider wrapping your Kunzite, especially cabochon-cut pieces, in a soft cloth or placing it in a jewelry box with a cushioned lining. Avoid storing it in humid environments or near harsh chemicals, as these can compromise its luster and overall appearance. By taking these precautions, you can ensure that Kunzite retains its mesmerizing hue and brilliance for years to come.

What are the metaphysical properties associated with sugilite?

Sugilite is thought to promote emotional healing, boost spiritual growth, and activate the crown chakra. It’s a powerful stone for those seeking to deepen their spiritual connection.

author avatar
Aryan K Astro Spiritual Advisor
Aryan K. is a seasoned astrologer and a dedicated team member at Deluxe Astrology. With an extensive background in astrology, Aryan possesses in-depth knowledge in various domains including Zodiac Signs, Tarot, Numerology, Nakshatra, Career Astrology, Kundli analysis, and marriage predictions. His passion for unraveling the mysteries of the cosmos and providing accurate astrological insights has made him a trusted name in the field. Aryan’s articles aim to enlighten readers with precise and practical astrological guidance, ensuring they benefit from the ancient wisdom of astrology. Whether you're seeking clarity about your future, understanding your personality traits, or making informed decisions about your career or relationships, Aryan's expertise is here to guide you. When he's not writing, Aryan enjoys stargazing and delving into the latest astrological studies to enhance his knowledge and expertise in the field continually.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *