metamorphic

Tumbled purple rock, likely lepidolite-bearing mica schist

Lepidolite-rich mica schist; lepidolite K(Li,Al)₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(F,OH)₂, possibly mixed with quartz and feldspar

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark purple, fine- to medium-grained, with a dull to pearly mica sheen and irregular pale mineral patches; estimated Mohs hardness 2.5–3.5 for lepidolite-rich areas, higher where quartz occurs. Cleavage is strong in mica layers; specific gravity is typically about 2.8–3.1.

Identified September 6, 2026More metamorphic →

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At a glance

Common name: Tumbled purple rock, likely lepidolite-bearing mica schist
Scientific name: Lepidolite-rich mica schist; lepidolite K(Li,Al)₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(F,OH)₂, possibly mixed with quartz and feldspar
Category: metamorphic
Identified: September 6, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $3–$20 for a common tumbled piece; unusually vivid, well-polished specimens may sell for $20–$50.

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

Formed by regional or contact metamorphism of clay- or mica-rich rock, commonly associated with lithium-bearing pegmatites; exact geological age and identity cannot be confirmed from the photograph.

Uses & applications

Primarily a decorative tumbled specimen or lapidary stone; lepidolite is collected for its purple color and lithium-mica mineralogy, but it has little industrial value in small pieces.

Geological facts

The purple color may come from lepidolite, manganese-bearing minerals, or iron staining; polished surfaces can make mica-rich rocks look more uniform than they are.

Field identification & locations

Look for flaky micaceous sparkle, platy cleavage, and softer zones that can be scratched by a steel knife; common sources include Brazil, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, and U.S. lithium pegmatite districts.