Properties of Lepidolite
Lepidolite is a mineral that belongs to the mica group. It is a lithium-rich mineral and is typically found in granite pegmatites, which are coarse-grained igneous rocks. Lepidolite is known for its striking lilac or lavender color, which is often caused by the presence of manganese.
The following table provides a comprehensive list of lepidolite properties in both SI and US customary/Imperial units at normal temperature and pressure (NTP).
Note: click on the button to switch between Metric and Imperial units.
| Physical Properties | Metric |
|---|---|
| Chemical Formula | K(Li,Al)3(Si,Al)4O10(F,OH)2 |
| Molar Mass | 386.31 g/mol |
| Crystal System | Monoclinic |
| Mohs Hardness | 2.5 - 3 |
| Density | 2800 - 2900 kg/m3 |
| Color | Pale lilac blue, light red, colorless, or gray |
| Diaphaneity | Translucent |
| Luster | Vitreous, pearly |
| Cleavage | (001) perfect |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Streak | White |
Note: unless stated otherwise, all values are taken at room temperature (approximately 20°C or 68°F) and 1 atm pressure. (1 atm = 101,325 Pa)
References: 1) Cardarelli, François. Materials Handbook: A Concise Desktop Reference. Switzerland: Springer International Publishing, 2018. 2) CRC Handbook of Chemistry and Physics, 97th Edition. United Kingdom: CRC Press, 2016-2017.