mineral

Lepidolite

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

Hardness: 2.5-4 (Mohs scale), Color: Pink, lilac, or purple, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Monoclinic (often found in micaceous masses), Cleavage: Perfect basal

Hardness: 2

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5-4 (Mohs scale), Color: Pink, lilac, or purple, Luster: Vitreous to pearly, Crystal structure: Monoclinic (often found in micaceous masses), Cleavage: Perfect basal

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in lithium-bearing granitic pegmatites. It is late-stage igneous mineral formed from fluids enriched in lithium and volatiles.

Uses & applications

Secondary source of lithium; used in jewelry as beads and cabochons, and as an ornamental stone or collector specimen. Lithium is used in batteries and glass production.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is often called the 'peace stone' or 'stone of transition' in metaphysical circles. It naturally contains trace amounts of rubidium and cesium.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct purple to lilac color and micaceous (flaky) texture. In spherical forms like these, look for the 'sparkle' of mica flakes within the polish and its relatively low hardness compared to quartz.

Other mineral specimens

See all

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

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic

Green Apatite on Albite

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

mineral