mineral

Lepidolite in Quartz

K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2 / SiO2

Hardness: 2.5-3 (Lepidolite) to 7 (Quartz); Color: Violet, lilac, or pink mixed with white/clear; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal structure: Monoclinic/Hexagonal; Cleavage: Perfect basal (mica areas).

Hardness: 2
Color: Violet, lilac, or pink mixed with white/clear
Luster: Pearly to vitreous

Identified May 24, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in granitic pegmatites where high concentrations of lithium are present. Usually occurs in late-stage magmatic crystallization. Found in areas like Brazil, Madagascar, and the USA.

Uses & applications

Used as a minor source of lithium, for lapidary work (towers, beads, carvings), and highly valued in the metaphysical community as a 'stone of transition'.

Geological facts

Lepidolite is the most common lithium-bearing mineral. Its purple color is caused by trace amounts of manganese. This specific specimen is a 'tower' or 'point' that has been cut and polished into a decorative shape.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive lilac/purple color and micaceous (shimmery) flakes often suspended within white quartz. It is much softer than amethyst and often has a sparkly, layered appearance.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

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

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Biotite Schist

Biotite-rich Schist [K(Mg,Fe)3AlSi3O10(F,OH)2]

metamorphic

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral