Purple isn’t just a color — it’s a symbol of mystery, royalty, and spiritual power. And when it comes to purple gemstones, that allure gets a whole new dimension. But with so many varieties on the market, from amethyst to spinel to sapphire, how do you know what’s rare, what’s valuable, and what’s just stunning to wear?

This guide breaks down the differences between purple crystals and purple gemstones, ranks the most famous varieties, explores their collectible value, and shows you which options are worth investing in — even on a budget.

Purple Gemstones vs. Purple Crystals: What’s the Difference?

While both may look similar to the untrained eye, there’s a key distinction:

• Purple crystals like amethyst and fluorite are usually semi-precious, valued more for their metaphysical or aesthetic qualities.
• Purple gemstones, on the other hand, are often cut and graded specifically for use in fine jewelry, with greater focus on brilliance, clarity, rarity, and durability.

Gemstones = jewelry-grade. Crystals = healing-grade.

The price and prestige tend to follow accordingly.

👉 Curious about how to use purple crystals in meditation or energy healing?

Read our full guide on purple crystals here.

Types of Purple Gemstones: From Everyday Beauty to Rare Collectibles

Not all purple gemstones are created equal. Some are abundant and perfect for everyday wear, while others are rare collector’s treasures valued for their uniqueness, origin, and vivid hues. Here's a revised guide to the most prominent purple gemstones—ranked from most accessible to most rare and valuable:

1. Amethyst (Quartz Family)

• Most affordable and widely available purple gemstone
• Found in Brazil, Uruguay, Zambia, and Africa
• Perfect for beginners and metaphysical use
• Often cut into beads, geodes, and cabochons

Price range: $5–$50 per carat

2. Iolite

• Known for pleochroism: changes color depending on viewing angle
• Deep bluish-purple tones, often underrated
• Readily available and excellent value for money
• Can be faceted or used in rough crystal jewelry

Price range: $30–$200 per carat

3. Charoite

• Only found in Siberia, Russia
• Displays beautiful swirling lavender to deep violet patterns
• Typically opaque and used in beads and cabochons
• A spiritual favorite in energy healing communities

Price range: $80–$500 per piece (depending on polish, depth, origin)

4. Sugilite

• Rare opaque purple gemstone with spiritual significance
• Coveted for its rich, solid purple hue and metaphysical reputation
• Often found in South Africa and Japan
• Limited supply makes untreated specimens more collectible

Price range: $100–$1,000+ per piece (high-quality raw stones or polished cabochons)

5. Spinel (Purple Variety)

• Highly brilliant and transparent; often confused with sapphire
• Rare in natural purple tones
• Durable and suitable for fine jewelry
• Increasingly valued among collectors

Price range: $300–$3,000 per carat (untreated purple spinel)

6. Tanzanite

• Technically blue-violet but often included in “purple” discussions
• Only found at the foot of Mt. Kilimanjaro in Tanzania
• Strong pleochroism and excellent brilliance
• Supply dwindling due to single-origin mine

Price range: $500–$4,000 per carat (depending on size and color)

7. Purple Sapphire

• Member of the corundum family with extreme durability (Mohs 9)
• Extremely rare in natural, untreated purple tones
• Commands premium prices for vivid or padparadscha-like hues
• Ideal for heirloom or high-jewelry pieces

Price range: $1,000–$10,000+ per carat

Which Purple Gemstones Are Worth Collecting?

For collectors, the following are most desirable:

• Top-tier purple sapphire: Excellent investment-grade stone with longevity
• Unheated purple spinel: Rare and gaining value rapidly
• Fine tanzanite above 5ct: Especially untreated stones from older mines
• Sugilite in deep grape-purple: Very limited supply, often linked to metaphysical markets

Most Famous Purple Gemstones in the World

• 🟣 The Delhi Purple Sapphire

  Actually a misidentified amethyst, famous for being “cursed” and locked in a museum in London.

• 🟣 The Tiffany Purple Spinel

  A 104-carat gemstone displayed by Tiffany & Co., showcasing how vibrant spinel can rival sapphire.

• 🟣 Queen Elizabeth II’s Purple Amethyst Brooch

  Set in diamonds and worn at numerous state events, blending royal tradition and classic elegance.

Celebrity Owners of Iconic Purple Gemstones

• Elizabeth Taylor – famously wore amethyst and lavender sapphire jewelry
• Lady Gaga – spotted wearing purple spinel and violet-colored sapphire in editorial shoots
• Victoria Beckham – owns a deep purple sapphire engagement-style ring
• Rihanna – has been seen wearing tanzanite and violet spinel as statement pieces

Affordable Alternatives for Everyday Collectors

If you love purple but don’t want to spend thousands, try:

• Amethyst – Look for deep royal purple with minimal inclusions
• Iolite – Its subtle color shifts make it perfect for minimalist rings and earrings
• Treated spinel – Still beautiful, and more affordable than natural

Tip: Look for natural stones above 1 carat, set in sterling silver or 14K gold, with certification if possible.

Final Thoughts: Investment, Beauty, and Everyday Magic

Purple gemstones are more than just pretty accessories — they represent a spectrum of history, science, mysticism, and luxury. Whether you’re drawn to the sparkle of sapphire, the swirling depths of charoite, or the affordable calm of amethyst, there’s a stone for every heart and budget.

If you're starting your collection:

• Focus on clarity and hue over carat weight
• Buy from trusted vendors
• Don’t overlook emotional connection — beauty is personal