Amethyst vs Purple Sapphire – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

pear cut purple sapphire

Purple sapphire provided by SparsileCo

I’m always thrilled to talk about the amazing world of gemstones. One interesting topic is how to differentiate purple sapphire vs amethyst, two gems that might look similar but are actually quite different.  Purple sapphire is actually a type of corundum, which is the same mineral family as rubies and blue sapphires. Amethyst, on the … Read more

Alexandrite vs. Amethyst – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

A mesmerizing piece of a polished Alexandrite gemstone

Alexandrite photo provided by Bizoux Jewelry

Amethyst and alexandrite are beautiful gemstones that catch our attention because they can do remarkable things. Gemologists love both of these stones, and they are both used in different kinds of jewelry. However, some things make them different from each other. They’re interesting not only because of how they look or how rare they are … Read more

Tanzanite vs. Amethyst – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

A gorgeous tanzanite minerals with an irregular shape and smooth surface

Tanzanite photo provided by Fine Mineral Photography - @finemineralphotography

Two beautiful gemstones, tanzanite and amethyst, call us with their charming purple beauty. Even though these gems are all very different and beautiful, they are all the same color. On the surface, they are very different and similar, and each has its place in the world of gemology. If you like jewelry and gems, you … Read more

Purple Fluorite vs. Amethyst – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

A stunning cubic purple fluorite

Purple fluorite photo provided by The Focal Crystal - @focalcrystal

Purple fluorite and amethyst stand out in the fascinating world of gemstones because of their beautiful and mysterious purple colors. Even though they are the same color, these two minerals are very different. Each has its history, story of its formation, and set of properties. Their differences show how varied the world of gemstones is, … Read more

Lepidolite vs. Amethyst – The Similarities and Differences (With Photos)

A unique and rare raw lepidolite crystal

Lepidolite photo provided by ExoticCrystals

Gem and mineral lovers worldwide are drawn to lepidolite and amethyst because they are both very pretty. Even though people may love the way these two minerals look, they are from different families and have other properties. On the other hand, they’re not entirely different either. As with many natural things, lepidolite and amethyst have … Read more

The 23 Best Spots For Gem Hunting In Texas In 2025

Blue topaz gemstone from Texas

There are a lot of options for hunting for gems in Texas with such a huge state and the variety of sparkling treasures waiting to be found. From the wide open deserts to the rolling hills and riverbeds there are gems hiding in plain sight. People have discovered colorful topaz shining in the Hill Country … Read more