
mineral
Pink Lepidolite
Lepidolite (K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 2.5-4 (Mohs); Color: Pink to purple, lilac, or grayish; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic (usually micaceous/scaly); Cleavage: Perfect basal; Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Pink to purple, lilac, or grayish
- Luster
- Pearly to vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-4 (Mohs); Color: Pink to purple, lilac, or grayish; Luster: Pearly to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic (usually micaceous/scaly); Cleavage: Perfect basal; Specific Gravity: 2.8-2.9
Formation & geological history
Formed in granitic pegmatites and high-temperature hydrothermal veins. It is a secondary mineral of late-stage crystallization in lithium-bearing igneous environments.
Uses & applications
Used as a minor ore of lithium, in the manufacture of glass and ceramics to increase resistance to heat, and as a popular semi-precious stone for carvings and metaphysical jewelry.
Geological facts
Lepidolite was originally named 'lilalite' after its lavender color. It is one of the world's most common sources of the rare alkali metal rubidium and is often referred to as a 'stone of transition' in holistic circles.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its light pink/purple color and micaceous (scaly) texture which catch the light. It is commonly found in Brazil, Canada, Madagascar, and the United States (Maine, California). Focus on the lithium-rich zones of pegmatite dikes.
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Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
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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