Lepidolite
Lepidolite (Lithium Mica) · Mineral Specimen and Semi-Precious Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Monoclinic; typically forms as fine-grained scaly aggregates, massive, or botryoidal formations, though individual crystals are pseudohexagonal tabular plates.
Mineral Group
Silicates; specifically a Phyllosilicate within the mica group.
Chemical Formula
K(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2
Formation Process
Pegmatitic and hydrothermal formation; crystallizes from residual lithium and volatile-rich magmatic fluids at high temperatures and pressures.
About This Crystal
A smooth, tumbled, violet-to-lilac colored stone showing a characteristically greasy to pearly luster. It is translucent to opaque with subtle white and grayish mottling, displaying the fine micaceous structure typical of tumbled lepidolite.
Physical Characteristics
Color ranges from lilac-pink, violet, to purplish-grey; white streak. Perfect basal cleavage in one direction yielding extremely thin, flexible elastic flakes. Uneven fracture. Specific gravity is approximately 2.8 to 2.9. Brittle as a mass, though individual sheets are flexible.
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative with two refractive indices. Shows weak pleochroism in shades of pink and colorless. Does not exhibit strong optical phenomena beyond a characteristic pearly micaceous sheen.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Notable sources include Brazil, Madagascar, the United States (California), Russia, and Canada. It forms primarily in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites and high-temperature quartz veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 2.5 to 4. Low durability and perfect cleavage make it very soft and sensitive, requiring careful handling and unsuited for everyday jewelry wear without protective settings.
Care & Maintenance
Requires gentle care; clean only with a soft damp cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or water due to its soft nature and water/chemical sensitivity.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon. Value is generally low for tumbled stones, ranging from inexpensive to moderate depending on size, lithium content, and coloration, with no common artificial treatments.
Special Characteristics
High natural lithium content, which gives the stone its characteristic lavender color. Exhibits the classic micaceous cleavage and flexibility in thin sheets.
Lore & History
Historically utilized as a major industrial ore for lithium extraction. In metaphysical and crystal healing traditions, it is often referred to as the 'stone of transition' and associated with emotional healing, reducing stress, and balancing the third eye and crown chakras (traditional beliefs, not scientific claims).