mineral
Lepidolite
K(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 2.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, pink to lilac-purple color, pearly to vitreous luster, and a monoclinic crystal system with perfect basal cleavage.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 2.5 to 4 on the Mohs scale, pink to lilac-purple color, pearly to vitreous luster, and a monoclinic crystal system with perfect basal cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Forms in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites and high-temperature hydrothermal veins, often associated with tourmaline and quartz.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of the alkali metal lithium, and utilized as a decorative gemstone or mineral specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Lepidolite is sometimes called lilac stone and is naturally rich in lithium, giving it its distinct purple hues.
Field identification & locations
Identified easily by its lavender color, micaceous flaky habit, and perfect cleavage; found worldwide including 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
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous