What is lepidolite?
Lepidolite: A Lithium-Rich Mica
Lepidolite is a relatively rare lithium-rich mica mineral. It is part of the phyllosilicate group and is known for its distinctive lilac or pink color, though it can also be colorless, gray, or even yellowish.
Composition and Formation:
- Lepidolite is essentially a complex aluminum silicate containing lithium, potassium, and fluorine. Its chemical formula is approximately K(Li,Al)₂(Al,Si)₄O₁₀(F,OH)₂.
- It typically forms in pegmatites, a type of igneous rock known for its exceptionally large crystals, and also in high-temperature quartz veins. Lepidolite is often associated with other lithium-bearing minerals like spodumene and tourmaline.
Properties:
- Color: Primarily lilac, pink, but also colorless, gray, yellow.
- Luster: Pearly to vitreous.
- Cleavage: Perfect basal cleavage, meaning it splits easily into thin sheets.
- Hardness: 2.5 to 3 on the Mohs scale.
- Specific Gravity: 2.8 to 2.9.
Uses:
- Lithium Source: Lepidolite is one of the important sources of lithium. Lithium is used in batteries, pharmaceuticals (particularly for treating bipolar disorder), and other industrial applications.
- Gemstone: While not particularly hard, lepidolite can be cut and polished into cabochons, beads, and other ornamental objects. Its calming color makes it popular in jewelry.
- Metaphysical Properties: In metaphysical practices, lepidolite is believed to have calming and stress-reducing properties. It is associated with emotional balance and inner peace.
Occurrence:
Lepidolite is found in several locations worldwide, including:
- Brazil
- United States (California, Maine)
- Canada
- Russia
- Sweden
- Madagascar