Lepidolite

saf-ahyuh r

Lepidolite is a beautiful lithium-rich member of the mica mineral family. Violet to pink in color, lepidolite has a scaly appearance seen in many specimens. This gemstone is not commonly known to be faceted and is primarily used in ornamental and decorative pieces.

Lepidolite Polished
Lepidolite Classification
Common Name Lepidolite
Species Mica
Lepidolite Optical Properties
Transparency Transparent - Translucent
Dispersion Strength: None
Refractive Index 1.525-1.587
Birefringence 0.018-0.038
Optic Character Biaxial
Optic Sign Negative
Polariscope Reaction Aggregate (AGG), Doubly Refractive (DR)
Fluorescence SWUV: Inert
LWUV: Inert
Pleochroism None
Lepidolite Characteristic Physical Properties
Hardness 2.5-4
Streak White
Specific Gravity 2.800-2.900
Inclusions Many lepidolite specimens have a scaly appearance.
Luster Vitreous, Pearly
Fracture Uneven
Cleavage Perfect, in one direction
Lepidolite Chemistry & Crystallography
Chemical Name potassium lithium aluminum fluoro-silicate
Chemical Formula K(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2
Crystal System Monoclinic
Chemistry Classification Silicate

Lepidolite Colors

  • Pink Lepidolite Pink
  • Purple Lepidolite Purple

Alternate Names

Lithia Mica, Lithium Mica

Countries of Origin

Afghanistan; Pakistan; United States of America (the); Unknown; Brazil

Care

Lepidolite is very soft, so be mindful of scratching. Requires gentle handling

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Tim Matthews

Author

Tim Matthews

Tim Matthews is President and Chief Executive Officer of Jewelry Television® (JTV), as well as a member of the company's Board of Directors. He oversees and leads all aspects of the company's powerful omni-digital retail platform that uniquely specializes in fine jewelry and gemstones. His passion for business and gemstones has led him to become a recognized expert in the field of gemology. He is a life member of the Gemmological Association of Great Britain (Gem-A) and has earned Gem-A's highest degrees, the Gemmology (FGA) and Diamond (DGA) diplomas. He is also a Graduate Gemologist (GG) of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and has also completed GIA's Graduate Diplomas in Diamonds, Colored Stones and Pearls. Under his leadership, JTV has become the leader in the sourcing and selling of color gemstones and jewelry.

This page was created on June 27, 2014.

This page was last edited on October 24, 2019.