mineral

Lepidolite

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

Hardness: 2.5 - 3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, purplish-gray, to lavender; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic (often found in micaceous, foliated masses); Cleavage: Perfect basal.

Hardness: 2
Color: Pink, purplish-gray, to lavender
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in lithium-bearing granitic pegmatites; often associated with other lithium minerals like tourmaline and spodumene. Geological age varies by deposit, often Precambrian to Phanerozoic.

Uses & applications

A major source of lithium used in batteries, glass, and ceramics. Often used as decorative stones, in jewelry (as cabochons), and for metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is known as the 'peace stone' or 'grandmother stone' in folklore due to its high lithium content, which is used medically in mood-stabilizing drugs. It is often found in 'books' or sheets due to its mica structure.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinct lilac-purple color, low hardness (can be scratched by a fingernail or copper coin), and the way it flakes into thin, flexible scales. Common locations include Brazil, Canada, and the USA (Maine and California).

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)

mineral