Amethyst vs. Ruby: The Regal Purple vs. The King of Gems
The choice between Amethyst and Ruby is a journey into two of the most historically significant colored gemstones. It’s a classic comparison of accessible, serene beauty against passionate, luxurious rarity. While both are captivating, they occupy vastly different positions in terms of value, durability, and symbolism.
This guide breaks down the key differences between Amethyst and Ruby to help you decide which gemstone’s unique character resonates with you.
Amethyst vs. Ruby: A Quick Comparison
| Aspect | Amethyst | Ruby |
|---|---|---|
| Chemical Composition | Silicon Dioxide (Quartz) | Aluminum Oxide (Corundum) |
| Hardness (Mohs Scale) | 7 (Good) | 9 (Exceptional) |
| Durability | Good for daily wear with care | Excellent. The ultimate gem for daily wear after diamond. |
| Refractive Index | 1.54 – 1.55 (Vitreous Lustre) | 1.76-1.78 (Bright Vitreous Lustre) |
| Best Known For | Royal purple color, clarity, and affordability. | Vivid “pigeon’s blood” red, rarity, and luxury status. |
| Color Range | Light lilac to deep violet. | Red – from pinkish to purplish to blood red. |
| Price Point | $ (Extremely Accessible) | $$$$ – $$$$$+ (Premium to Luxury Investment) |
1. Durability and Hardness: The Critical Distinction
This is the most important factor for jewelry, especially for rings.
- Ruby: With a hardness of 9 on the Mohs scale, ruby is the second hardest natural gemstone after diamond. It is exceptionally scratch-resistant and tough, making it a perfect, worry-free choice for an engagement ring or a piece of jewelry meant for a lifetime of daily wear. It is a true heirloom-quality gem.
- Amethyst: With a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, amethyst is a durable and tough gemstone, perfectly suitable for jewelry. However, it is significantly softer than ruby and can be scratched by materials that a ruby would easily resist. It requires more careful wear over many years.
Jewelry Verdict:
- For an heirloom piece for daily wear: Ruby is the unequivocal winner.
- For earrings, pendants, or occasional-wear rings: Amethyst is a beautiful and durable enough choice.
2. Color and Appearance: Serene Hue vs. Fiery Passion
This is the heart of the decision—the color that speaks to your soul.
- Amethyst is beloved for its cool, regal purple hues. Its color ranges from pale, translucent lilac to a deep, saturated violet. The most valued color is a strong, deep purple with rosy flashes. Its beauty is consistent, transparent, and calming.
- Ruby is prized for its intensely saturated, vivid red, often with a slight purplish or bluish undertone. The most coveted color is a pure, vibrant red known as “pigeon’s blood.” A fine ruby seems to glow from within with a fiery, incandescent color that amethyst does not possess.
3. Price and Value: The Most Dramatic Difference
The price gap between these two gems is one of the largest in the gemstone world.
- Amethyst is one of the most affordable gemstones available. Its abundance means you can get a large, high-quality, vividly colored stone for a very low cost. It offers incredible value for its beauty.
- Ruby is one of the most expensive gemstones in the world, often commanding higher prices per carat than a diamond of similar size. Its value is driven by its extreme rarity, especially in larger sizes with top color. A ruby is a significant financial investment.
4. Symbolism and Meaning
- Amethyst: Known as the “Stone of Sobriety” and was believed to prevent intoxication. It symbolizes peace, stability, and spiritual wisdom. It is the birthstone for February and has long been associated with royalty and clergy.
- Ruby: Historically known as the “King of Gems,” the ruby symbolizes passion, energy, wealth, and power. It is the birthstone for July and has long been associated with deep love, courage, and vitality.
The Final Verdict: Which Gemstone is Right for You?
Choose an Amethyst if:
- You are captivated by a deep, royal purple hue.
- Value and accessibility are your top priorities.
- You want a large, statement stone without the luxury price tag.
- The piece is for occasional wear or you don’t mind a slightly higher level of care.
- You are a February birthstone baby or value the symbolism of peace and wisdom.
Choose a Ruby if:
- You are looking for a high-value, luxury investment for an engagement ring or heirloom.
- You desire the most vibrant, fiery, and saturated red available.
- Ultimate durability for daily wear is your top priority.
- The symbolism of passion, power, and love resonates with you, or you are a July birthstone baby.
In essence: Amethyst is the gem of peaceful royalty. Ruby is the gem of passionate power. One allows you to own a beautiful purple treasure; the other allows you to own one of the most coveted substances on earth.
Find Your Perfect Gem at JW
Whether you’re drawn to the serene purple of Amethyst or the fiery passion of Ruby, our collections showcase the finest examples of both.
- Explore Our Ruby Collection
- Browse Our Amethyst Jewelry
- Schedule a Consultation: Our gemologists can help you see the dramatic difference between these two gems in person.
