Lepidolite

Lepidolite is a phyllosilicate mineral that comes in shades of pink, lilac, and purple-grey. Belonging to the mica family of minerals it is composed of lithium, aluminum, and potassium. Manganese impurities give lepidolite its color. Like other micas they also possess a shiny character that makes them glitter. Its name is derived from a Greek word (lepidos) for scale and (lithos) for stones.

What Kind of Rocks are Lepidolites Found in?

Lepidolites are rare because lithium does not easily bond with other minerals. It forms in igneous rocks that are slow cooling and rich in lithium. Pegmatites and hydrothermal quartz veins are the environments that can produce lepidolites.

This mineral can be found in aggregates, plates, masses, prismatic or tabular crystals, or stacked sheets. Lepidolites crystals can be found across the world with its veins spread in areas of Madagascar, Brazil, Russia, Australia, United Kingdom, Japan, United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Lepidolite Uses

Lepidolites are a minor ore of the mineral lithium. In the first half of the 1900s, this ore was more important than it is today. Most lithium today is produced from evaporates and brine deposits in South America for economic purposes.

Lepidolite mineral is used as a rich source of flake mica. It is also used as an ingredient in making some enamels and glasses. Most gem materials appear better when combined with lepidolites. Lepidolite as a mineral lacks the tenacity and hardness to become a better gem material. If incorporated with quartz, it becomes more durable. It also makes a pink to purple gemstone used to make mica cleavage surfaces that reflect light.

Metaphysical Characteristics of Lepidolites

Although lepidolite mineral resonates well with all chakras, it also helps in forging a unique connection between the crown, third-eye, and heart chakra system. You may notice yourself improving on how your feelings connect with dream realm. Lepidolites turn our mental state into one that picks and easily understands fine details. These minerals have a softening energy that can boost your emotional body, and calm the mind.

Mineral Properties of Lepidolite

Chemical formula: K(Li,Al₃)(AlSi₃)O₁₀(OH,F)₂
Color(s): Pink, lilac, and purple
Streak: White to colorless
Luster: Pearly vitreous
Transparency: Transparent to translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Specific Gravity: 2.8 to 3
Hardness (Mohs): 2.5 to 3.5
Cleavage: Perfect in one direction
Fracture: uneven
Uses: Lithium ore, additive for glass and ceramics, Mineral Specimens
Location: Madagascar, Brazil, Russia, Australia, United Kingdom, Japan, United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Lepidolite for Sale

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