Lepidolite
Lepidolite · Mineral Specimen and Collector Mineral
Crystal System
Monoclinic, typically forming as fine-grained scaly masses, micaceous aggregates, or pseudohexagonal tabular crystals.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Phyllosilicate subgroup)
Chemical Formula
K(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2
Formation Process
Hydrothermal and pneumatolytic processes in late-stage granitic pegmatites, crystallizing under volatile-rich, low-temperature conditions.
About This Crystal
The specimen is a pale lilac-pink to soft violet aggregate composed of tiny, shimmering scaly flakes and micaceous plates. It has a pearly to vitreous luster with translucent to opaque transparency, exhibiting a compact cluster habit typical of lepidolite mica.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from pale pink, lilac, to grayish-violet. Streak is white. Perfect basal cleavage in one direction yielding flexible elastic flakes. Specific gravity is approximately 2.8 to 2.9. Brittle in mass form but individual flakes are flexible.
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative with refractive indices around 1.55 to 1.60. Exhibits slight pleochroism in shades of pink and colorless. Shows strong birefringence typical of micaceous minerals.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Found globally with notable deposits in Brazil, Madagascar, the United States (California), Russia, and Zimbabwe. Typically forms in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4. Low durability for jewelry due to perfect cleavage and softness, making it easily scratched and prone to flaking.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with a soft dry cloth or lukewarm soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight which can cause fading. Store separately from harder minerals to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common to uncommon mineral specimen, valued primarily as a commercial ore of lithium and as a mineral specimen for collectors. Inexpensive to moderately priced depending on size and crystal development.
Special Characteristics
Contains significant amounts of lithium, which gives it its characteristic pink-to-purple color. Forms as a lithium-bearing mica often associated with tourmaline, spodumene, and quartz in pegmatites.
Lore & History
Historically named from the Greek word 'lepidos' meaning scale, due to its scaly micaceous appearance. In modern metaphysical traditions, lepidolite is considered a stone of transition, emotional healing, and stress relief, frequently associated with the heart and crown chakras.