mineral
Lepidolite
K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,3O10)(F,OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2.5-4 on Mohs scale, Color: Lilac, violet, pink, or gray, Luster: Pearly to vitreous, Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect basal, Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9
- Hardness
- 2
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-4 on Mohs scale, Color: Lilac, violet, pink, or gray, Luster: Pearly to vitreous, Crystal Structure: Monoclinic, Cleavage: Perfect basal, Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9
Formation & geological history
Forms in granite pegmatites and high-temperature quartz veins, often associated with other lithium-bearing minerals like spodumene and tourmaline.
Uses & applications
Primary ore of the alkali metal lithium, used in glass manufacturing, and popular as a crystal specimen for collectors.
Geological facts
Lepidolite is one of the few abundant minerals that contains lithium as an essential component, giving its characteristic purple/pink color.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its distinctive lilac-pink color, micaceous flaky structure, and soft feel. Commonly found in Madagascar, Brazil, Russia, 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
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary