Purple Gemstones Guide: The Allure of the Purple Sapphire

When people think of sapphires, they usually picture classic royal blue. Yet there is another shade that quietly steals the spotlight: purple sapphire. This rare color mix of blue and red tones gives the stone a luxurious, almost mystical glow that feels both modern and regal. At Pretty Facets, we love working with these unusual hues, because they let clients enjoy something distinctive while still benefiting from sapphire’s durability and sparkle.

In this guide, we will walk through what sets a purple sapphire apart from other purple gemstones. How its value is judged, and why it is becoming a favorite for collectors and fine jewelry lovers worldwide. By the time you reach the end, you will know exactly what to look for when you browse the Pretty Facets collections or design your own piece.

What Is a Purple Sapphire?

A purple sapphire is a member of the corundum family, the same mineral group that gives us blue, pink, and yellow sapphires. Trace amounts of elements like chromium and iron shift the color away from pure blue and into a mix of violet, lavender, and deep plum tones. This blend is what makes people ask questions like “is sapphire blue or purple”, and the answer is simple. Sapphire is a family of colors, and purple is one of its most intriguing members.

Unlike amethyst, which is quartz, a purple sapphire has a hardness of 9 on the Mohs hardness scale. Which means it is tough enough for everyday wear in engagement rings and signature pieces, not just occasional jewelry. While amethyst and purple spinel can look similar at first glance. Sapphire usually shows stronger brightness and a more refined, glassy polish that fits naturally into high end fine jewelry, as highlighted by the Gemological Institute of America.

Shades, Sparkle and the Star Effect in Purple Sapphires

One of the most enjoyable parts of shopping for purple sapphires is exploring the color range. Some stones lean soft and romantic, with lilac or lavender tones that feel airy and feminine. Others show rich grape or violet hues that look almost royal in a white gold or platinum setting. There are also stones that shift slightly in different lighting, appearing more bluish in daylight and warmer indoors.

Cut and clarity make a huge difference in how a purple sapphire performs on the hand. Well cut stones show bright flashes across the surface and clean, crisp facets. Small inclusions are normal in natural gems, but at Pretty Facets we favor stones where inclusions do not interrupt the path of light through the center of the gem. This keeps the stone lively instead of dull or hazy.

You may also have seen star sapphires and wondered “is star sapphire pink or purple”. Star sapphires are cut as cabochons, not faceted, and show a star shaped light effect known as asterism. The body color can be blue, pink, or purple depending on the trace elements in the stone. A star purple sapphire combines this optical effect with a violet body color, creating a very niche but captivating gem for collectors.

Are There Really Purple Sapphires and How Rare Are They?

Many people still ask “are there purple sapphires”. Simply because the blue variety is so dominant in advertising and pop culture. The answer is yes, absolutely. Purple stones occur naturally in several sapphire producing regions, including Sri Lanka, Madagascar, and East Africa. In some deposits they appear as part of a mixed color sapphire production, alongside blue, pink, and yellow gems from the same area.

Are Purple Sapphires Rare?

When we talk about “are purple sapphires rare”, we are really comparing them to blue sapphires of similar quality. In general, fine purple stones are less common on the market than mid range blues. Which is why you do not see them in every store window. However, they are not so rare that they are impossible to find. 

Why Certain Shades Are Harder to Find

Some specific shades, such as perfectly balanced violet with strong saturation and minimal gray, can be significantly harder to locate. Larger sizes with that kind of color are especially prized, which is why they often become center stones for custom designs rather than mass produced jewelry.

Are Purple Sapphires Valuable? Pricing and Quality Factors

Another common question is “are purple sapphires valuable”. The short answer is yes, but the value depends on the same set of factors that govern other sapphires: color, clarity, cut, carat weight, origin, and whether the stone has been treated.

Color: The Main Price Driver

Color is always the first thing to consider. A top tier purple sapphire will show rich, even color that is neither too dark nor too washed out. Gray or brown undertones tend to lower value, while vivid violet or royal purple tones can command higher prices.

Clarity: How Clean the Stone Looks

Clarity matters as well. Clean stones with only minor internal features are more desirable, especially in larger sizes. Too many inclusions can interrupt the light and make the gem look hazy instead of bright.

Cut: Brilliance and Face Up Beauty

Cut influences both beauty and price. A well proportioned cut gives the stone strong brilliance and an even face up color. Poorly cut stones may look patchy or dull, even if the rough material was good. At Pretty Facets, we prioritize finely cut purple sapphire gems because our clients want pieces that stay beautiful from every angle, not just in one type of lighting.

Pricing: Purple Versus Blue and Other Purple Gems

When you compare pricing, you will notice that a high quality purple sapphire can be more affordable than a blue sapphire of similar grade. Yet still far more luxurious and durable than most other purple stones. This balance is a big part of the appeal for buyers who want something unique and valuable without simply following the crowd.

Rings for Everyday Luxury

When this violet sapphire is set into a ring, it instantly becomes a conversation piece. A well chosen purple stone offers depth and dimension that feels different from classic diamond or blue sapphire designs. Simple solitaire styles highlight the center gem, while halo rings surround it with small white diamonds to boost both sparkle and perceived size. 

You will also find designs with side stones, tapered baguettes, or delicate pavé details that frame the center gem without overpowering it. These styles give you the flexibility to wear your ring as a right-hand statement piece or as part of a stacked look. Because sapphire is so durable, it holds up well to everyday wear. Making it ideal for clients who want a signature ring they never have to baby. If you love classic blues as well, you will enjoy our in depth royal blue sapphire guide on Pretty Facets.

Engagement Rings and Their Meaning

Many couples are now looking beyond diamonds for engagement pieces that feel personal and symbolic. That is where engagement rings featuring this purple gemstone come in. The color purple has long been linked with royalty, creativity, and deep emotional connection. For some people it also carries spiritual meaning, suggesting wisdom and inner calm. When you choose this shade for an engagement ring, you are quietly saying that your relationship is both passionate and thoughtful.

Pretty Facets works with clients who want that balance of meaning and practicality. A sapphire center stone offers impressive hardness and resilience. While the color keeps the design from looking like every other ring in the room. Whether you prefer an oval, cushion, round, or pear shape, our team can help you visualise how the stone will look in different settings and metal colors before you commit. To explore where many of these stones begin their journey, read our Sri Lanka gems guide from Pretty Facets.

How to Choose the Right Stone From Pretty Facets

Choosing the right gem does not have to feel overwhelming. When you are browsing the Pretty Facets collection or considering a bespoke commission, it helps to focus on a few core points:

• Color first: Look for a tone that makes you feel something when you see it. Some people love lighter lilac, others prefer deep royal purple.
  
• Check the cut: A well cut stone will look bright and lively across the entire surface, not just in one corner.
  
• Understand treatments: Heating is common in sapphires. Our team is transparent about all treatments so you know exactly what you are buying.
  
• Review certification: Independent lab reports confirm that the gem is natural and describe its key features.
  

If you ever feel unsure, you can reach out to Pretty Facets for personal guidance. We can compare different stones side by side, explain price differences, and suggest ring designs that match your lifestyle, whether you work at a desk, in a creative studio, or in a more hands on role.

Caring for Your Jewelry

• Sapphire jewelry is easy to care for with simple at-home cleaning.
  
• For routine cleaning: soak the ring in lukewarm water with mild dish soap, gently brush with a soft toothbrush, rinse, and dry with a lint-free cloth.
  
• This removes everyday lotion, oils, and dust that can dull the stone.
  
• Avoid wearing your ring during heavy lifting, intense workouts, or when using strong chemicals.
  
• Even sapphire can chip if it takes a sharp hit on a hard surface.
  
• Pretty Facets recommends a professional check every 1–2 years to clean the piece deeply, inspect the prongs, and ensure the center stone is fully secure.
  

Final Thoughts

Choosing a jewel in this color is about more than following a trend. It is about finding a stone that reflects your personality, your style, and the kind of story you want your jewelry to tell. Whether you are drawn to a delicate everyday ring or a bold engagement design, the right piece will feel like an extension of you.

At Pretty Facets, our goal is to make that search simple, transparent, and enjoyable. From carefully sourcing each gem to guiding you through custom design, we are here to help you discover a piece you will love wearing for decades and feel proud to pass down as part of your own story.

Quick FAQs About This Gem

Are there really purple sapphires, or are they just treated stones?
Yes, natural stones exist in this color family. Some undergo gentle heating to improve clarity or color, a widely accepted practice, while others are prized specifically because they display beautiful color with minimal treatment.

Are purple sapphires rare enough for collectors?
Fine quality stones, especially in larger sizes or with perfectly balanced violet tones, are relatively scarce. That rarity, combined with strong durability, is why serious collectors and jewelry lovers are increasingly drawn to this color.

Are purple sapphires valuable compared with blue ones?
Prices vary with quality, but well colored gems often offer a sweet spot between uniqueness and affordability. Many buyers like that they can own something distinctive and luxurious without paying the same premium as for top tier blue stones.