mineral
Lepidolite
K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, purplish-gray, or lavender; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal structure: Monoclinic (micaceous/tabular); Cleavage: Perfect basal.
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Pink, purplish-gray, or lavender
- Luster
- Pearly to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5–3 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, purplish-gray, or lavender; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal structure: Monoclinic (micaceous/tabular); Cleavage: Perfect basal.
Formation & geological history
Formed in granitic pegmatites during the final stages of cooling. It is a lithium-rich mica that often occurs with other lithium minerals like spodumene.
Uses & applications
Primary source of lithium for batteries and glass/ceramic production; also used in jewelry and as a decorative stone for metaphysical collectors.
Geological facts
Lepidolite is one of the major sources of the rare alkali metals rubidium and caesium. Its name is derived from the Greek word 'lepidos' for scale, referring to its scaly appearance.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its characteristic lavender color and micaceous, flaky 'books' or granular mass structure. Common in pegmatite-rich regions like Brazil, Madagascar, and the Southwestern United States.
