mineral

Lepidolite

Lepidolite (K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2)

Hardness: 2.5-3.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Pink, lilac, rose-red to violet-gray; Luster: Pearly to Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (micaceous sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9.

Hardness: 2
Color: Pink, lilac, rose-red to violet-gray
Luster: Pearly to Vitreous

Identified May 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites. It is late-stage igneous mineral formed from residual hydrothermal fluids. Geological age varies by location (e.g., Precambrian specimens in Brazil).

Uses & applications

Major source of lithium for batteries and glass/ceramics; used as an ornamental stone, in jewelry (rarely due to softness), and as a metaphysical/collecting specimen.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is the world's most common lithium-bearing mineral and was historically a primary source of rubidium as well. It is often found associated with other pegmatite minerals like tourmaline and spodumene.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its lilac/purple color, pearly luster, and characteristic micaceous peeling. Found in Brazil, Madagascar, USA (California/Maine), and Canada. Collectors look for scaly translucent aggregates.

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