Lepidolite
Lepidolite (K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si,Rb)4O10(F,OH)2) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Collector Mineral
Crystal System
Monoclinic; commonly occurs as scaly aggregates, massive forms, or micaceous plates
Mineral Group
Silicates (Phyllosilicate / Mica Group)
Chemical Formula
K(Li,Al)3(Al,Si)4O10(F,OH)2 - contains Manganese (Mn) which causes the purple color
Formation Process
Igneous formation; primarily occurs in pegmatites during late-stage crystallization in lithium-rich environments
About This Crystal
Exhibits a range of lilac, violet, and rosy-purple hues. These beads show a waxy to pearly luster with characteristic 'glimmer' or 'sparkle' from mica flakes. Transparency is translucent to opaque with visible mottled inclusions.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Lilac/Purple; Streak: White; Cleavage: Perfect basal (one direction); Fracture: Uneven; Specific Gravity: 2.8–3.0; Fluorescence: Often fluoresces creamy white or yellow under UV light.
Optical Properties
Biaxial negative; Refractive Index: 1.525–1.587; Birefringence: 0.029–0.038; no significant dispersion or chatoyancy but shows a micaceous sheen.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Mainly Brazil, Madagascar, USA (California), and Zimbabwe; found in lithium-bearing granitic pegmatites
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 2.5–3.5 (Very Soft); Low toughness due to perfect cleavage; brittle and easily scratched by metals or harder stones.
Care & Maintenance
Clean only with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; NO ultrasonic or steam cleaners; store separately to avoid scratches; avoid all harsh chemicals and acids.
Rarity & Value
Relatively common; value is determined by the depth of purple color and lack of white quartz matrix. Generally affordable as tumbled beads or decorative carvings.
Special Characteristics
High lithium content (industrial source); micaceous structure creates a 'silver-fleck' effect when light hits internal cleavage planes; may contain 'phantom' patches of white or grey quartz.
Lore & History
Known as the 'Stone of Transition' in folklore; historically significant as a major source of Lithium; traditionally associated with the Crown Chakra and believed to promote emotional balance and stress relief.