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 (Mohs scale); Color: Lilac, violet, pink, to grayish-white; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (micaceous); Specific Gravity: 2.8–2.9

Hardness: 2
Color: Lilac, violet, pink, to grayish-white
Luster: Vitreous to pearly

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites during late-stage crystallization. It is often found associated with other lithium-bearing minerals like spodumene and tourmaline. Deposits range from hundreds of millions to billions of years old.

Uses & applications

Primary source of lithium for battery production; used in the glass and ceramic industry to increase durability; frequently used in lapidary for cabochons and beads; popular 'calming' stone in metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is the most common lithium-bearing mineral. It was originally named 'lilalite' before being renamed to lepidolite from the Greek 'lepidos' for 'scale', referring its flaky, micaceous appearance.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive lilac-purple color and scaly, mica-like flake structure. It can be scratched with a copper penny but not a fingernail. Commonly found in Brazil, Canada, the US (Maine and California), and Zimbabwe.