mineral

Lepidolite

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

Hardness: 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale; Color: Pink, purplish-gray, or lavender; Luster: Vitreous to pearly; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: Perfect basal (micaceous sheets/flakes); Specific gravity: 2.8–2.9.

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

Identified March 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in late-stage crystallization of lithium-bearing granite pegmatites. It is often found associated with other lithium minerals like tourmaline and spodumene. Geological age varies by deposit location, ranging from Precambrian to Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Primary source of lithium for glass making and metallurgy; also used in the production of ornamental carvings, bead jewelry, and as a metaphysical collector's stone.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is the most common lithium-bearing mineral. It was first described in the late 18th century and was originally named 'lilalite' before being renamed to lepidolite, after the Greek word 'lepidos' for scale, referring to its scaly appearance.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct lilac-purple color, low hardness (can be scratched by a copper coin), and its tendency to flake off in glittery scales or clusters. Common locations include Brazil, Russia (Ural Mountains), Madagascar, and the United States (California/Maine).

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)

Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)

Mineral

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Granite

Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)

igneous