Lepidolite Gemstone Information
About Lepidolite - History and IntroductionLepidolite belongs to the mica group of materials, specifically it is lithium, aluminium-rich mica. Since lepidolite is a mica material, it is not defined as stone. Lepidolite was first discovered in the 18th century, when it was called "lilalite" because of its lavender color. However, it was later named "lepidolite" by scientists, from the Greek "lepidos", which means "scale", referring to its scaly appearance caused by flakes of lithium. Lepidolite occurs in granite pegmatites and tin veins. It is often found with other crystals such as tourmaline and quartz. Lepidolite is an important source of lithium, which is the lightest metal in the world. Lithium is used in rechargeable batteries, aircraft parts and domestic appliances, such as toasters and microwave ovens. Lithium compounds are also used in mobile phones, air purifiers, high temperature lubricants and mood-stabilizing drugs. For ornamental use, lepidolite is used to make paperweights, ashtrays and suchlike. It is also made into gemstones.
Lepidolite can be identified by its restricted order of formation, platy habit and pebbly appearance. Sources of lepidolite include Brazil, Russia, the USA, Canada, Sweden, Germany, Finland, the Czech Republic, Japan, Zimbabwe and Madagascar.
Please refer to our Gemstone Glossary for details of gemology-related terms.
Lepidolite is often confused with muscovite, but lepidolite has a lower relief than muscovite. Lepidolite is sometimes referred to as the "grandmother stone" or the "peace stone" because it is thought to have nurturing and calming properties. Therefore, lepidolite is believed to be of great comfort to those who are feeling stressed or nervous. It is also thought to help those with bipolar disorder because of its mind-balancing properties. Lepidolite is associated with the zodiacal sign of Libra and the 7th chakra in the traditional Hindu belief system. The 7th chakra is positioned on the crown of the head and is linked to the brain and central nervous system. Lepidolite is thought to open the mind and calm the higher self.
Lepidolite can be cut en cabochon, into spheres or fancy shapes. It can also be tumbled and drilled. Therefore, lepidolite is ideal for making beaded necklaces and bracelets, pendants, rings and other types of jewelry. Lepidolite can be set into silver, gold or other metals. Note: Buy colored gemstones by size and not by carat weight. Colored stones vary in size-to-weight ratio. Some stones are larger and others are smaller than diamonds by weight in comparison.
Always remove any lepidolite gems or jewelry before exercising, playing sports or engaging in vigorous household chores. When storing your lepidolite, store it separately from other gems and jewelry to prevent scratches and fractures. It is best to wrap your stones using a soft cloth and place them into a fabric-lined jewelry box for extra protection. |
Lepidolite is considered to be quite tough, but it is also fairly soft at 2.5 - 4 on the Mohs scale. It's softer than many gemstones, but with care, jewelry and ornaments can last for many generations. Lepidolite can be quite sensitive to strong pressure, high temperatures, and harsh household chemicals and cleaners. Avoid exposing lepidolite to bleach or sulphuric acid. Lepidolite can be cleaned using warm, soapy water. Wipe down stones using only a soft cloth and be sure to rinse well to remove any soapy residue.- First Published: February-12-2014
- Last Updated: January-17-2019
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