igneous
Raw lepidolite-bearing pegmatite
Lepidolite (K(Li,Al)₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(F,OH)₂) in a granitic pegmatite, likely with quartz and feldspar
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectCoarse-grained, lilac-gray to pink; lepidolite has pearly luster and perfect basal cleavage, while quartz is harder (Mohs 7) and feldspar about 6. The specimen appears platy and mica-rich, with irregular fracture and no visible crystal faces.
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Physical properties
Coarse-grained, lilac-gray to pink; lepidolite has pearly luster and perfect basal cleavage, while quartz is harder (Mohs 7) and feldspar about 6. The specimen appears platy and mica-rich, with irregular fracture and no visible crystal faces.
Formation & geological history
Formed as a late-stage, highly fluid granitic pegmatite that concentrated lithium and fluorine, typically during Precambrian to Phanerozoic mountain-building events. Commonly occurs in miarolitic cavities and zoned pegmatite veins.
Uses & applications
Collected as a mineral specimen; lepidolite is a minor lithium source and is used in specialty ceramics and glass, while associated quartz and feldspar have industrial applications. Attractive purple material may be used decoratively, but it is generally unsuitable for jewelry because of mica’s softness.
Geological facts
Lepidolite’s lilac color commonly comes from manganese, and its sheets can glitter when rotated. It is one of the diagnostic lithium-bearing mica minerals.
Field identification & locations
Look for thin, flexible, pearly mica sheets and a pink-lilac color in a very coarse quartz-feldspar rock; a hardness test and lithium/mineral analysis can confirm it. Important localities include Brazil, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and California.
