mineral
Lepidolite Pebble
K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,3O10)(F,OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 2.5 to 4; color ranges from pink, purple, to lilac-gray; pearly to vitreous luster; monoclinic crystal system; perfect basal cleavage; specific gravity of 2.8 to 2.9.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4; color ranges from pink, purple, to lilac-gray; pearly to vitreous luster; monoclinic crystal system; perfect basal cleavage; specific gravity of 2.8 to 2.9.
Formation & geological history
Forms in granite pegmatites and high-temperature quartz veins, often associated with other lithium-bearing minerals like spodumene and tourmaline.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of the alkali metal lithium, used in specialized glass, ceramics, and occasionally cut into cabochons or collected as mineral specimens.
Geological facts
Lepidolite is one of the main sources of lithium, an element crucial for modern rechargeable batteries. Its distinctive lilac color is due to trace amounts of manganese.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its soft texture, micaceous cleavage, and characteristic pink-to-purple coloration. Commonly found in pegmatite-rich regions worldwide, such as Brazil, Madagascar, and the USA.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary