mineral

Lepidolite

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

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, lilac, purplish-gray; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic (often found in micaceous masses); Cleavage: Perfect basal (peels into thin sheets); Specific gravity: 2.8–2.9

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

Identified March 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in high-silica granite pegmatites and occasionally in greisens and hydrothermal veins. It is often associated with other lithium-minerals like spodumene and tourmaline. Most specimens dates back hundreds of millions of years (often Proterozoic or Paleozoic eras).

Uses & applications

Primary source of the rare element lithium; also used as an ornamental stone, for glass/ceramic production, and as a popular specimen for metaphysical and mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is known as the 'peace stone' or 'stone of transition' in the crystal community. Historically, it was used to produce lithium salts; it is one of the major sources of Rubidium as well. Because of its high lithium content, it is often used in the manufacture of heat-resistant glass.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct purple-pink hue and its mica-like flaky texture. It is frequently found in pegmatite districts such as Brazil (Minas Gerais), USA (California and Maine), Zimbabwe, and Canada. Collectors should look for its 'scaly' appearance, which gave it its name (from Greek 'lepidos' for scale).