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Spinel gemstones come in vibrant colors, but purple, violet, and almandine spinels stand out for their rich hues and mystical aura. These spinels boast unique properties that make them coveted in jewelry.
Vibrant Tinges
Purple and violet spinels display deep, saturated colors ranging from light lavender to vivid fuchsia purple. Almandine spinels exude a reddish-purple color. These lush colors stem from trace elements like chromium and iron in the gemstone's composition.
Hardness and Durability
As a species, spinel ranks 8 out of 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, making these gems extremely durable for jewelry purposes. Purple spinel in particular often exhibits fewer flaws and greater clarity which contributes to its strength.
Thanks to the extreme durability, the customers of our jewelry store, vividcarat.com, prefer to buy jewelry with pink, red, green, and other hues of spinel. Check the list of all jewelry items available in stock on our website. We work in New York City.
Chemical Composition
Spinels comprise magnesium aluminum oxide (MgAl2O4).
The table below shows the specific chemical trace elements that give rise to purple, violet, and almandine spinel hues:
|
Spinels |
Trace Elements |
|
Purple |
Chromium |
|
Violet |
Cobalt |
|
Almandine |
Iron |
Mystical and Healing Properties
In crystal healing lore, purple and violet spinels are associated with the crown and third eye chakras, conferring spiritual awakening, inner wisdom, and psychic abilities when worn.
Price Per Carat and Trends for Purple, Violet, and Almandine Spinel in New York City
Understanding the gemstone marketplace provides critical intel for rare purple, violet, and almandine spinel buyers. Here's an overview of current pricing factors and market trends influencing their value:
Price Per Carat
As a high-class gemstone, purple spinel commands a premium price, with values ranging from:
- 1-3ct Purple Spinel: $2,000 – $5,000 per carat
- 3-5ct Purple Spinel: $5,000 – $10,000 per carat
- +5ct: $10,000 – $15,000+ per carat
Violet and almandine spinel carat prices run slightly lower but remain expensive in New York City.
Several factors sway purple spinel pricing:
- Clarity- Fewer visible inclusions mean greater purity and value
- Color Saturation- Vibrant, rich purple hues increase cost
- Cut- Quality faceting optimizes color saturation
- Carat Weight- Larger spinels have exponentially higher price points
- Treatment- Untreated gems cost substantially more
Rising Popularity
The bold colors and mystical attributes of purple, almandine, and violet spinel resonate with today's consumers. Well-saturated 1-2ct purple spinels are popular for use in engagement rings and designer jewelry. As supplies tighten, prices rise.
New Sources
While still considered rare, promising new spinel deposits have been discovered in Africa and Vietnam, reassuring markets. If high-quality material enters circulation, prices may stabilize.
Purple, almandine, and violet spinels remain exceptional and scarce gemstones commanding steep premiums, especially in fine quality and sizes over 1 carat.
Savvy buyers should closely evaluate gem certificates for an impartial analysis.
Our jewelry store (vividcarat.com) provides fair data about the gemstones we sell to ensure you obtain the best stone at a fair market value.
Origin and Mining Locations of Purple, Violet, and Almandine Spinel
Here are the prime sources for purple, violet, and almandine spinel gems:
Sri Lanka
The most sought-after purple-red spinels come from Sri Lanka. For centuries, royal Sri Lankan gem mines have produced exceptional spinels, including the fabled Black Prince's Ruby. Fine quality and size are very scarce.
Vietnam
A newer and rising star in spinel mining, Vietnam yields beautiful violet-blue and vibrant purple stones with intense saturation and few inclusions. Most commercial production traces to Vietnam.
Tanzania and Madagascar
Purple and violet spindles are found in the secondary alluvium deposits in Tanzania and Madagascar. The stones have a nice color, but they have fewer facets and more imperfections than Asian spindles. However, African materials can still provide good value.
Burma
The Mogok region of Burma (Myanmar) yields exquisite "pigeon blood" red spinels but very little purple material. Conflict concerns limit its trade potential.
Larger specimens with fine color and clarity remain exceptionally rare and costly due to the challenge of mining quality gem-grade spinel crystals. For collectors, an Asian origin offers prestige and potential appreciating value.
A Buyer's Guide to Purple, Violet, and Almandine Spinel
For prospective buyers eyeing these captivating purple-hued spinels, here is sage guidance before acquiring spinels:
Four Tips for Choosing Your Stone
- Prioritize Color- The richness of purple/violet tones is paramount. Evaluate loose gemstones and jewelry items in a different light.
- Consider Clarity- Minor flaws may be inevitable. Avoid large inclusions impacting durability.
- Review Cut Quality- Well-proportioned faceting enhances color saturation and brilliance.
- Understand Size Rarity- Larger specimens (5ct+) with fine color are extremely scarce and costly.
Navigating the Purchase in New York City
Buy only certified gemstones. A reputable certificate verifies quality specifications.
Work with Trusted Suppliers - Established jewelers and dealers ensure ethical sourcing.
Compare Prices - Check the market rate for specs; beware of drastic undervaluation.
View in Person - If possible, vet stones yourself before purchase.
By taking an informed, quality-focused approach, buyers can secure a show-stopping purple spinel that aligns budget with beauty and meaning. Proper due diligence pays dividends for years when admiring its scintillating purple fire.