mineral

Lepidolite

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

Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, lilac, or purple; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (peels into thin sheets); Specific Gravity: 2.8–2.9

Hardness: 2
Color: Pink, lilac, or purple
Luster: Pearly to vitreous

Identified March 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in Lithium-bearing granitic pegmatites. It is associated with other lithium minerals like spodumene and tourmaline. Typically late-stage magmatic crystallization.

Uses & applications

Major ore of lithium used in batteries and glass production; also used as an ornamental stone in jewelry, carvings, and as a popular metaphysical/collector mineral.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is the most common lithium-bearing mineral. It often contains traces of rubidium and cesium, making it scientifically useful for radiometric dating of rocks.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive lilac color, micaceous 'scaly' appearance, and low hardness (can be scratched by a fingernail). Found in Brazil, Canada, Madagascar, and the USA (California/Maine).

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

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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)

mineral