My companions are at this point in 100% orange items, so it IS in fact possible - keep looking.

I believe there's an entire blue post about this subject which explains it in more detail - however my searchfu is failing me and alas, they don't let google scan the forums so search is fail. Basically it's not what you think it is - the bought crystals are because you simply CANNOT obtain them as you should be and loads of people are level 50. As to the actual price - 2.5mil really isn't that much effort once you get to level 50.