Litithium Quartz
Quartz var. Lithium-bearing Quartz · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Mineral Specimen
Crystal System
Trigonal; typically occurs in prismatic points or massive crystalline chunks with uneven termination.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicates)
Chemical Formula
SiO2 with Li, Mn, Fe, Al inclusions
Formation Process
Hydrothermal formation in pegmatite pockets where lithium-rich fluids interact with silicon dioxide at low to moderate temperatures.
About This Crystal
A translucent to opaque variety of quartz characterized by a unique lavender-grey to reddish-mauve hue. The color is often zoned and caused by lepidolite or other lithium-rich mineral inclusions trapped within the quartz matrix. It has a vitreous luster and a somewhat waxy surface texture in raw form.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Lavender, mauve, grayish-purple; Streak: White; Cleavage: None; Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 2.65; Fluorescence: Generally inert but may show weak yellow or orange if lepidolite is present.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544–1.553; Birefringence: 0.009; Optical character: Uniaxial (+); Non-pleochroic, though color density varies by inclusion concentration.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Minas Gerais, Brazil (primary source); can also be found in pegmatite-rich regions of Africa.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 7; Toughness: Good (unless heavily included with lepidolite, which might create planes of weakness); High wearability for jewelry.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight as lithium minerals can sometimes fade; clean with warm soapy water; safe for ultrasonic cleaners if no major internal fractures are present.
Rarity & Value
Uncommon; more valuable than standard clear quartz or amethyst due to its specific chemical makeup and limited geographic origin. Price ranges from $10 to $100 depending on size and saturation.
Special Characteristics
Often contains phantom-like inclusions of lepidolite (lithium mica) and may display localized iridescence from internal fractures.
Lore & History
Used traditionally in crystal healing for its supposed calming and antidepressant properties, linked to the chemical lithium used in medicine. Historically prized by collectors for its unique smoky-lavender tone that differs from typical Amethyst.