Image: Andrew Silver (Public domain)
monocliniccommonsilicates
Spodumene
LiAlSi₂O₆
This image features a large, elongated prismatic crystal of spodumene, appearing pale yellowish-white to colorless, with distinct striations and visible cleavage planes. A pen is placed alongside for scale, highlighting the specimen's considerable size.
Spodumene Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
6.5Crystal System
monoclinicLuster
vitreousStreak Color
whiteCleavage
perfect on {110}Fracture
unevenSpecific Gravity
3.1Colors
white, gray, colorless, pink, green, yellowTransparency
transparentType Locality
Brazil, Afghanistan, Pakistan, USA (North Carolina, California), MadagascarMineral Group
silicatesUses
lithium ore, gemstone, collectorAssociated Minerals
quartz, feldspar, beryl, tourmaline, lepidoliteRarity
commonGeological Context
Spodumene is a pyroxene mineral typically found in lithium-rich granitic pegmatites, where it crystallizes from late-stage magmatic fluids. It can also occur in aplites and gneisses, often associated with other rare-element minerals.
