Lepidolite

Hardness 2.5-3 on Mohs scale; Pink to lilac or purplish-gray color; Vitreous to pearly luster; Monoclinic crystal system; Perfect basal cleavage producing thin micaceous flakes; Specific gravity ~2.8-2.9.

Forms primarily in lithium-rich granite pegmatites and high-temperature hydrothermal veins during late-stage magmatic crystallization.

Major minor ore of lithium, used in energy storage and batteries, glass and ceramic manufacturing, and popular as a decorative specimen and gemstone for carving.

Lepidolite is the most common lithium-bearing mineral. Its name comes from the Greek word 'lepidos', meaning 'scale', in reference to its scaly micaceous appearance.

Identified by its distinctive lilac-pink color, micaceous scaly structure, soft hardness, and association with pegmatite minerals like quartz, albite, and tourmaline. Commonly found in Brazil, Madagascar, Russia, and the USA (California and Maine).