Lepidolite
Lepidolite · Mineral Specimen and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Monoclinic; typically found in massive, scaly, or granular aggregates, occasionally forming pseudohexagonal tabular crystals.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Phyllosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
K(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and pegmatitic processes, crystallizing late in the cooling stage of lithium-bearing granitic magmas under high volatile pressures.
About This Crystal
The specimen appears as a rounded, tumbled nodule or pebble exhibiting a distinct mottled pattern of soft lilac to deep purple areas mixed with white or grey quartz and matrix minerals. It has a pearly to vitreous luster on cleavage planes and an opaque to translucent transparency.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from pale pink and lilac to deep purple and greyish-white. It has a white streak, perfect basal cleavage in one direction yielding flexible thin flakes, an uneven fracture, a specific gravity of roughly 2.8 to 2.9, and a brittle tenacity except for the elastic cleavage flakes.
Optical Properties
Biaxial (-) with refractive indices around 1.55-1.60. Exhibits weak pleochroism in shades of pink and purple for individual crystal flakes.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States (California), Russia, and Canada. It primarily forms in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4, making it quite soft and easily scratched. It has poor durability for everyday jewelry due to its perfect cleavage and softness.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Avoid ultrasonic cleaners, harsh chemicals, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight which can fade the color. Store separately to prevent scratching by harder minerals.
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon as a mineral specimen, highly valued for ornamental carvings and as a major ore of lithium. Prices are generally affordable depending on size and quality.
Special Characteristics
High lithium content and presence of mica-like cleavage sheets that flake easily. Often naturally associated with other lithium minerals like tourmaline and spodumene.
Lore & History
Historically known as 'lilac stone' or 'lithium mica', it has been utilized in modern crystal healing as a stone of transition, emotional healing, and stress relief, commonly associated with the third eye and crown chakras. These are traditional beliefs and not scientifically validated properties.