Sparkling Amethyst vs Ultramarine Blue

How close are they?

ΔE 15.8, loose: different enough that you should pick on purpose. Ultramarine Blue is a little lighter, cooler than Sparkling Amethyst.

Can I use Ultramarine Blue instead of Sparkling Amethyst?

Not as a straight swap; see the closer alternatives below. Loose match (ΔE 16). Ultramarine Blue is a little lighter, cooler than Sparkling Amethyst.

Can I use Sparkling Amethyst instead of Ultramarine Blue?

The same difference applies the other way round: Sparkling Amethyst is a little darker, warmer.

ΔE is the colour difference between our two swatch estimates: under about 6 is close, over about 15 is loose. Real paints also differ in finish, coverage and how they thin, so test before you commit.