Lepidolite

Lepidolite specimens for sale

106 for sale ยท $45โ€“$30,000 USD

584 in the gallery

Lepidolite is a lithium-rich mica mineral that forms in lamellar, plate-like crystals with a pearly to vitreous luster. Its color range, typically pink to lavender, makes it one of the more visually striking micas, and it commonly occurs in foliated or compact masses. Specimens often display a glassy sheen and can be translucent to opaque, with a soft, gentle luster that catches light from multiple angles.

Formula
KLi2Al(AlSi3O10)(OH)2
Rarity
Common
Stability
Stable
Collector interest
High Interest
Classification notes
Phyllosilicate; Mica group; Silicate mineral

Key characteristics

Crystal system
monoclinic
Mohs hardness
2.5โ€“4
Specific gravity
2.8โ€“3.3
Luster
vitreous, pearly
Transparency
transparent, translucent
Color
colorless, white, gray, pink, violet, yellow, green
Streak
white
Cleavage
perfect
Fracture
uneven
Crystal habit
tabular, prismatic, granular, massive
  • Gem mineral
  • Classic / historic

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Where Lepidolite is found

Top localities

  1. Himalaya Mine78 specimens
  2. Pederneira mine60 specimens
  3. Itinga40 specimens
  4. Paprok35 specimens
  5. Afghanistan29 specimens
  6. Jonas Mine25 specimens
  7. Coronel Murta25 specimens
  8. Cruzeiro mine23 specimens
  9. Minas Gerais23 specimens
  10. Aricanga mine17 specimens

About Lepidolite

Significant collections feature Lepidolite from several well-known localities, including mine dumps and hydrothermal environments in Brazil and the United States. Greener or higher-luster varieties can appear in pegmatites, where they accompany other lithium-bearing minerals and sometimes form coarse crystals in pebbly matrices. The mineral tends to occur in layered crusts or veinlets, joining with muscovite and quartz in mixed aggregates that collectors find attractive for their color and texture.

Collectors value Lepidolite for its pastel hues and classic stacking habit, which translates well into cabinet specimens and display pieces. Its lithium-rich chemistry lends a distinct, velvety pink-purple tone that contrasts nicely with clear quartz or darker host rocks. While not as rare as some gem minerals, well-formed crystals and attractive color saturation from reputable localities remain sought after by mineral enthusiasts.