mineral

Lepidolite

K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2 (Lithium-bearing Phyllosilicate)

Hardness: 2.5–3.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Lilac, pink, rose-red, or violet-gray; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (micaceous sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.8–2.9

Hardness: 2
Color: Lilac, pink, rose-red, or violet-gray
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 15, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites through hydrothermal processes. It typically occurs as secondary minerals associated with other lithium-bearing minerals like spodumene or tourmaline. Geological age varies by deposit, often found in Precambrian or Paleozoic formations.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of lithium; used in the manufacture of heat-resistant glass and ceramics. In jewelry/metaphysics, it is frequently tumbled for pocket stones, cabochons, and decorative carvings.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is one of the major sources of the rare alkali metals rubidium and caesium. It is often called the 'peace stone' in folklore due to its high lithium content, which is used in pharmaceutical mood stabilizers.

Field identification & locations

Field identification: Characteristic violet/lilac color and soft, micaceous (flaky) texture. Found commonly in Brazil, USA (California/Maine), Canada, and Zimbabwe. Collectors should look for scaly aggregates or distinct 'books' of mica sheets.

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