Lepidolite (K(Li,Al)₃(Si,Al)₄O₁₀(F,OH)₂) is the lithium-bearing mica, distinctive for its lavender to pink color and book-like aggregates of glittering scales. It is a major lithium ore mineral and the most-collected lithium mica. Pegmatites at Coronel Murta (Brazil), Pala (California), and Madagascar produce iconic specimens, often paired with rubellite tourmaline.
Key Facts
- Mohs hardness 2.5–4.
- Monoclinic; perfect basal cleavage produces flexible scales.
- Lavender to pink color from Mn²⁺/Li substitution.
- Major lithium ore mineral; companion to spodumene in pegmatites.
- Common matrix for elbaite/rubellite tourmaline.
Notable Localities
Coronel Murta (Minas Gerais, Brazil) and Pala (California, USA) yield iconic specimens. Madagascar (Antsirabe) and Western Australia supply additional collector material.
Found at these Localities
- Eastern Brazilian Pegmatite Province (巴西东部伟晶岩省)
