mineral

Mottled purple-and-cream rough mineral specimen, likely lepidolite-bearing pegmatite

Probably lepidolite (lithium mica; K(Li,Al)₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(F,OH)₂) with light-colored quartz or feldspar; identification uncertain from image

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Purple patches in a pale matrix; uneven, partly platy surface with a pearly to vitreous luster. Lepidolite is typically Mohs 2.5–4, monoclinic, with perfect basal cleavage; specimen hardness and specific gravity cannot be established visually.

Identified October 14, 2026More mineral →

Explore Mottled purple-and-cream rough mineral specimen, likely lepidolite-bearing pegmatite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

At a glance

Common name: Mottled purple-and-cream rough mineral specimen, likely lepidolite-bearing pegmatite
Scientific name: Probably lepidolite (lithium mica; K(Li,Al)₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(F,OH)₂) with light-colored quartz or feldspar; identification uncertain from image
Category: mineral
Identified: October 14, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $2–$20 for a small, common rough fragment; larger or well-crystallized specimens can be worth more.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Lepidolite commonly crystallizes in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites as late-stage magma cools; such deposits span a wide range of geological ages.

Uses & applications

Lithium mica is collected as a mineral specimen and historically served as a minor lithium source; attractive pieces may be used decoratively, but this rough fragment is not visibly gem quality.

Geological facts

Lepidolite’s lilac-to-purple color is associated with trace manganese, and it commonly occurs with quartz, feldspar, and other lithium minerals.

Field identification & locations

The mottled color suggests a mica-bearing pegmatite, but a close inspection for tiny reflective mica flakes and laboratory testing would be needed to confirm the identification. Lepidolite-bearing pegmatites occur in regions including Brazil, Madagascar, and the United States.