Mineral

Lepidolite

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5–3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, purplish-pink, lilac, or violet-grey; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (micaceous sheets); Specific gravity: 2.8–2.9.

Hardness: 2
Color: Pink, purplish-pink, lilac, or violet-grey
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in lithium-bearing granitic pegmatites. It is an igneous secondary mineral that often occurs with other lithium minerals like spodumene or tourmaline. It can represent late-stage crystallization in magma chambers.

Uses & applications

Major ore of lithium used in batteries and electronics; used in high-temp glass and ceramics; widely carved into spheres, towers, and jewelry for the metaphysical/collector market.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is the most common lithium-bearing mineral. It was first called 'lilalite' (from the Hindu word for lilac) before being renamed from the Greek word 'lepidos' for scale, referring to its scaly, micaceous appearance.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive lilac/purple color and pearly luster. In the field, look for 'books' of mica-like sheets or granular masses. Common locations include Brazil, Madagascar, Canada (Manitoba), and the USA (Maine, California).