Lepidolite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameLepidolite
Chemical FormulaK(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2
Mohs Hardness2.5
Crystal Systemmonoclinic
Lusterpearly
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect basal on {001}
Fractureuneven
Specific Gravity2.8
Colorsyellow, pink, purple, lilac, gray, white
Transparencytranslucent
Type LocalityItinga, Jequitinhonha valley, Minas Gerais, Southeast Region, Brazil
Mineral GroupSilicates
Useslithium ore, jewelry, collector
Associated Mineralsquartz, feldspar, tourmaline, spodumene, beryl
Rarityuncommon
Description
This specimen features yellowish, platy lepidolite crystals arranged in dense, rosette-like aggregates, exhibiting a translucent quality. The individual plates are small and tightly packed, creating a textured, botryoidal appearance.
Geological Context
Lepidolite is a lithium-rich mica that forms primarily in highly evolved granitic pegmatites and aplites, often as a late-stage hydrothermal mineral. It is a key indicator of lithium mineralization.
