A type of mica, lepidolite is notable for its lilac-gray or rosy coloring, caused by trace amounts of manganese. Its name comes from the Greek word for "scale," a reference to its visual appearance. A common lithium-bearing gemstone, some pieces are used as ore to extract the lithium metal within.
Hardness:
2.5 - 3.5
Density:
2.8 - 2.9 g/cm³
On This Page
Properties
Values
Market Price
How to Care
Characteristics
Cultural
Common Questions
General Info About Lepidolite
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Physical Properties of Lepidolite
Luster
Pearly, Greasy, Vitreous, Resinous
Diaphaneity
Transparent to translucent
Colors
Pink, light purple, light rose red
Magnetism
Non-magnetic
Tenacity
Elastic
Cleavage
Perfect
Fracture
Micaceous
Streak
White
Crystal System
Monoclinic
Hardness
2.5 - 3.5 , Soft
Density
2.8 - 2.9 g/cm³, Normal Weight
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Chemical Properties of Lepidolite
Chemical Classification
Silicates
Formula
K(Li, Al, Rb)2(Al, Si)4O10(F, OH)2
Elements listed
O, Si
Common Impurities
H, Al, Li, Fe, Ti, Na, Mg, Ge, etc
Optical Properties of Lepidolite
Refractive Index
1.525-1.587
Birefringence
0.018-0.038
Pleochroism
None
Optical Character
Biaxial negative
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Rarity
Uncommon
Collection Recommendation
4.1 out of 5
Popularity
3.7
Aesthetic
4.4
Rarity
3.8
Sci-Cultural Value
4.0
The Market Price of Lepidolite
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Color and weight are decisive factors affecting the price of lepidolite. At about 2.5 cm across, the price of a tumbled stone with average quality is usually $2-$5/piece.
Rough/Tumbled Price
Smaller Than Hand (0-1.5in)
$3 - $20
Close Hand (1.5-3in)
$20 - $60
Equal To Hand (3-6in)
$55 - $80
Bigger Than Hand (>6in)
$75
Cluster/Geode Price
Smaller or Equal To Hand (<3in)
$8 - $70
Equal To Hand (3-6in)
$65 - $120
Bigger Than Hand (>6in)
$120
How to Care for Lepidolite?
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Durability
Nondurable
Scratch resistance
Poor
Toughness of Lepidolite
Poor
Fair
Good
Excellent
The poor toughness of lepidolite is ascribed to its highly perfect cleavage, making it susceptible to splitting along certain planes. A layered crystal structure further increases its fragility, causing it to be easily damaged during daily use.
Stability of Lepidolite
Sensitive
Stable
Lepidolite is sensitive for daily use due to its low hardness and vulnerability to water, heat, stain penetration, and chemical exposure which can lead to irreversible negative changes in appearance.
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Characteristics of Lepidolite
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Formation of Lepidolite
It occurs in granite pegmatites, in some high-temperature quartz veins, greisens and granites. Associated minerals include quartz, feldspar, spodumene, amblygonite, tourmaline, columbite, cassiterite, topaz and beryl.
Cultural Significance of Lepidolite
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Uses of Lepidolite
The element Rubidium was discovered through the analysis of lepidolite. It is sometimes used as a source of flake mica, and in the production of glass and some enamels. The attractive colors caused by trace amounts of manganese also make lepidolite a popular ornamental stone.
Distribution of Lepidolite
Notable occurrences include Brazil; Ural Mountains, Russia; California, United States; Tanco Mine, Bernic Lake, Manitoba, Canada; and Madagascar.
Healing Properties of Lepidolite
Lepidolite is believed to be a great stress reliever and emotional healer. Its positive energies can be an aid for deeper meditation and for stimulating synchronicity. It is often used in times of grief, reportedly working best on the higher chakras to open the heart to love and joy, which in turn can encourage healing of the mind, body, and spirit.
Chakras
Heart, Third Eye
Common Questions People Also Ask
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