Rock Identifier
Lepidolite in Quartz (Lithium-bearing Ore) (Lepidolite (K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2) and Quartz (SiO2)) — igneous/mineral
igneous/mineral

Lepidolite in Quartz (Lithium-bearing Ore)

Lepidolite (K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2) and Quartz (SiO2)

Hardness: 2.5-3 (Lepidolite) to 7 (Quartz); Color: Lilac, lavender, or pink inclusions in a white or translucent matrix; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic (Mica) and Hexagonal (Quartz); Specific gravity: ~2.8.

Hardness
2
Luster
Vitreous to pearly
Identified More igneous/mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-3 (Lepidolite) to 7 (Quartz); Color: Lilac, lavender, or pink inclusions in a white or translucent matrix; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic (Mica) and Hexagonal (Quartz); Specific gravity: ~2.8.

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites during the final stages of magma crystallization where lithium is concentrated. Often associated with other minerals like tourmaline and spodumene. Ages vary globally from Proterozoic to Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Primary source of lithium used in rechargeable batteries, glass, and ceramics. Also used as a decorative stone in jewelry (cabochons) and for metaphysical/collecting purposes.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is known as the 'peace stone' in folklore and is a major source of the rare alkali metal Rubidium. It is one of the few minerals that frequently contains significant levels of lithium.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct lilac-to-purple color and micaceous sheen within a harder host rock. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, and the US (Maine/California). Field collectors should look for platy, shiny flakes that can be scratched with a penny.

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Other igneous/mineral specimens

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

Lepidolite

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

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Chlorite (Small Flakes/Sand) (Chlorite Group (Magnesium Iron Aluminum Silicate Hydroxide - (Mg,Fe)3(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2·(Mg,Fe)3(OH)6)) — mineral

Chlorite (Small Flakes/Sand)

Chlorite Group (Magnesium Iron Aluminum Silicate Hydroxide - (Mg,Fe)3(Si,Al)4O10(OH)2·(Mg,Fe)3(OH)6)

mineral
Lepidolite (Lepidolite [K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2]) — Mineral

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

Mineral
Peridot (Olivine) (Magnesium Iron Silicate (Mg, Fe)2SiO4) — mineral

Peridot (Olivine)

Magnesium Iron Silicate (Mg, Fe)2SiO4

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White Quartz (Quartz (SiO2)) — Mineral

White Quartz

Quartz (SiO2)

Mineral
Pearl (with Peridot) (Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) + Conchiolin; Peridot: Magnesium iron silicate (Mg, Fe)2SiO4) — mineral

Pearl (with Peridot)

Calcium carbonate (CaCO3) + Conchiolin; Peridot: Magnesium iron silicate (Mg, Fe)2SiO4

mineral