$80Median
1Sold (12 mo)
$80Last sale
Lithiophilite
7 in the gallery
Lithiophilite is a lithium manganese phosphate mineral that occurs as prismatic to tabular crystals and aggregates. It typically shows a yellow to brown or amber color with a vitreous to resinous luster and a relatively high hardness for a phosphate mineral, often forming intimate intergrowths with other lithium-bearing species. Specimens from historic pegmatite pockets reveal sharp, well-formed crystals that are prized for their clarity and color, and some notable examples come from classic localities that have long fueled mineral collections. Collectors value lithiophilite for its warm hues and the complex crystal habits it can exhibit, which can range from isolated crystals to luminous sprays embedded in rock matrices.
- Formula
- LiMn2+PO4
- Rarity
- Rare
- Stability
- Stable
- Collector interest
- Moderate Interest
Where Lithiophilite is found
Top localities
- Stewart Mine4 specimens
- Yavapai County2 specimens
About Lithiophilite
Although not as common as more widespread phosphates, lithiophilite continues to attract attention where it occurs alongside spodumene, triphylite, or other lithium-bearing minerals in pegmatites. The interplay of lithium and manganese often yields specimens with a distinctive amber to honey-tone that stands out under reflected light. For the mineral enthusiast, fine lithiophilite represents a combination of color, crystallography, and geographic provenance, making particularly desirable pieces those with sharp terminations and clean, undisturbed faces.
