mineral

Pink Lepidolite

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

Hardness: 2.5-3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, lilac, to purplish-grey; Luster: Pearly to Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (peels in sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9

Hardness: 2
Color: Pink, lilac, to purplish-grey
Luster: Pearly to Vitreous

Identified March 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, lilac, to purplish-grey; Luster: Pearly to Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (peels in sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in lithium-bearing granitic pegmatites. It is often found associated with other lithium minerals like spodumene and tourmaline. Commonly associated with the late stages of magmatic crystallization.

Uses & applications

Primary source of the rare alkali metal lithium; also used as a decorative stone, in jewelry (as cabochons), and highly valued by mineral collectors and metaphysical practitioners.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is the most common lithium-bearing mineral on Earth. Its name is derived from the Greek word 'lepidos' for scale, referring to its scaly appearance caused by flakes of mica.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct lilac to pink color, micaceous (sheety) cleavage, and low hardness (can be scratched by a copper penny). Common locations include Brazil, Canada (Manitoba), and the USA (California and Maine).

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