Purple Gemstones
Purple gemstones and crystals — 19 popular purple stones with photos and identification notes. Looking for purple crystal names for jewellery, collecting or a daily-carry stone? Start here, then test yourself in the crystal quiz.
Purple crystals, stones & gemstone names
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Amethyst
Mohs 7 (lower in impure varieties)
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Tanzanite
Mohs 6.5
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Fluorite
Mohs 4 (defining mineral)
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Spinel
Mohs 7.5–8.0
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Sodalite
Mohs 5.5–6
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Charoite
Mohs 5 - 6
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Lepidolite
Mohs 2.5–3
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Ametrine
Mohs 7
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Angelite
Mohs 3.5
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Almandine
Mohs 7.0–7.5
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Sugilite
Mohs 6–
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Andalusite
Mohs 6.5–7.5
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Alexandrite
Mohs 8.5
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Dumortierite
Mohs 7–8.5
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Scapolite
Mohs 5.5–6
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Purpurite
Mohs 4–5
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Stichtite
Mohs 1.5–2
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Kunzite
Mohs 6.5–7
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Iolite
Mohs 7–7.5
Frequently asked questions
What is the most popular purple crystal?
Amethyst is among the best-known purple stones. Amethyst is a violet variety of quartz. Ancient Greeks wore amethyst and carved drinking vessels from it in the belief that it would prevent intoxication. Ameth
Are all purple gemstones rare or expensive?
No. Purple stones range from common, affordable minerals to rare gem-quality material. Value depends on the species, clarity and whether the colour is natural or treated.