igneous
Pink tourmaline-bearing pegmatite (likely lepidolite-rich)
Lithium-rich granitic pegmatite; probable elbaite tourmaline (Na(Li,Al)₃Al₆(BO₃)₃Si₆O₁₈(OH)₄) with lepidolite mica
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectPale pink to lilac, coarse crystalline and flaky, with vitreous-to-pearly luster; tourmaline is Mohs 7–7.5, while lepidolite is 2.5–3. Cleavage is poor in tourmaline but excellent basal cleavage in mica; the specimen appears rough-cut or naturally fractured.
Identified More igneous →
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Physical properties
Pale pink to lilac, coarse crystalline and flaky, with vitreous-to-pearly luster; tourmaline is Mohs 7–7.5, while lepidolite is 2.5–3. Cleavage is poor in tourmaline but excellent basal cleavage in mica; the specimen appears rough-cut or naturally fractured.
Formation & geological history
Formed from volatile-rich magma in a late-stage granitic pegmatite, where lithium, boron, and fluorine concentrated during crystallization. Pegmatites are generally Precambrian to Mesozoic, depending on locality.
Uses & applications
Used as a mineral specimen; gem-quality pink tourmaline may be faceted for jewelry, while lepidolite is collected for its color and lithium content. Not typically used structurally.
Geological facts
The pink coloration commonly reflects manganese in elbaite or lithium-bearing mica. Pegmatites can produce exceptionally large crystals of quartz, feldspar, mica, tourmaline, and beryl.
Field identification & locations
Look for sparkling mica sheets, pink-purple color, coarse interlocking crystals, and possible prismatic tourmaline; localities include Minas Gerais, Brazil, California and Maine, USA, Madagascar, and Afghanistan. A hardness or streak test helps distinguish mica-rich material from solid tourmaline.
