Mica · Mohs 2.5–4
Lepidolite: Identification, Meaning & Care
Lepidolite is a lithium-bearing mica recognized by its platy, flaky texture and pearly sheen.
Lepidolite properties
- Formula
- Lithium mica
- Mineral group
- Mica
- Mohs hardness
- 2.5–4
- Color
- Lilac, pink, gray, or white
- Transparency
- Translucent in thin sheets
- Luster
- Pearly to vitreous
- Cleavage / fracture
- Perfect basal
How to identify Lepidolite
- Splits into thin flexible sheets.
- Often sparkles across many tiny plate-like faces.
- It does not form pointed quartz terminations.
Lepidolite care
Water
Keep dry; flaky aggregates can shed or weaken when handled.
Light & heat
Avoid prolonged strong light and heat.
Storage
Store separately from harder materials and cushion sharp edges, points, or cleavage-prone faces.
Traditional meaning
Commonly associated with transition and calm in modern crystal folklore.
Traditional symbolism is presented as cultural history or personal practice, not as a scientific or medical claim.
Sources & further checking
- Mindat mineral database
- GIA Gem Encyclopedia
- RRUFF mineral database
- International Mineralogical Association
See our full methodology.