mineral

Purple Lepidolite with Quartz

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

Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Lilac, violet, pink; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal. Often found in massive or micaceous forms mixed with quartz.

Hardness: 2
Color: Lilac, violet, pink
Luster: Pearly to vitreous

Identified April 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in high-temperature igneous environments like granite pegmatites. It is a secondary mineral of late-stage crystallization in lithium-rich ore deposits.

Uses & applications

Major source of lithium; used in glass and ceramic glazes. Used as a semi-precious stone for carvings, beads, and decorative obelisks. Popular among collectors for its calming aesthetic.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is one of the major sources of the rare alkali metals rubidium and cesium. It is often called the 'peace stone' or 'grandmother stone' in metaphysical circles due to its high lithium content.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the distinct lilac/purple color and pearly sheen. It can often be scratched with a penny, though quartz inclusions provide higher local hardness. Common in Brazil, Russia, and Madagascar.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

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Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

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