Lepidolite
Lepidolite (Potassium Lithium Aluminum Silicate Hydroxide Fluoride) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen (often used for beads and ornamental carvings).
Crystal System
Monoclinic; typically forms in tabular or pseudohexagonal crystals, but most commonly found as massive, scaly, or granular aggregates (micaceous masses).
Mineral Group
Silicates, specifically the mica group (Phyllosilicates).
Chemical Formula
K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2
Formation Process
Forms primarily in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites and high-temperature hydrothermal veins through late-stage magmatic crystallization.
About This Crystal
The specimen is a stretch bracelet composed of spherical polished beads. The beads display a soft, pale lavender to medium purple and pinkish-purple color palette with mottled, cloudy internal patterns and subtle pearly to vitreous luster, characteristic of micaceous aggregates.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from lilac-pink, purple, to greyish-white. Streak is white. Perfect basal cleavage in one direction due to its mica structure. Specific gravity is approximately 2.8 to 2.9. Brittle tenacity with an uneven to micaceous fracture. Exhibits weak or no fluorescence under UV light.
Optical Properties
Biaxial (-) with a refractive index ranging from approximately 1.530 to 1.600. Exhibits slight pleochroism in shades of pink and colorless. Shows a pearly sheen on cleavage planes, though polished beads display a more uniform vitreous to sub-vitreous luster.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States (California), Russia, and Canada. Found predominantly in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness is 2.5 to 4, making it quite soft and susceptible to scratching. Perfect cleavage makes it fragile and requires careful handling, generally poor for high-wear jewelry unless protected.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and harsh chemicals. Store separately from harder stones to prevent scratching, and keep away from prolonged direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon. Value is generally low to moderate, driven by bead quality, color saturation, and size. Treatments are rare, though sometimes stabilized for bead making.
Special Characteristics
High lithium content. Due to its mica structure, it possesses a distinct pearly luster on cleavage planes and occasionally exhibits a subtle chatoyant or reflective sheen under direct light.
Lore & History
Often referred to as the 'stone of transition' in modern crystal healing traditions. Associated primarily with the third eye and crown chakras, believed by practitioners to promote emotional balance, reduce stress, and ease anxiety. These are traditional beliefs and cultural symbolisms rather than scientifically proven properties.