The Radiant World of Lepidolite
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Lepidolite isn't usually on the top of a collectors list, but this fascinating mineral has more value than most people realize. Let's take a look at this lovely, lilac mineral!
Lepidolite was first discovered in the 18th century by Swedish chemist and mineralogist Johan August Arfwedson. The name is derived from the Greek word "lepidos," which means "scale," owing to its scaly or flaky appearance.
Lepidolite is a lithium-rich mica mineral, belonging to the phyllosilicate group of minerals. It can range in color from pale pink, lavender, purple, and even colorless. The surface has a pearly luster and forms in thin sheets or scales.
Lepidolite is commonly found in lithium-rich pegmatite and granite deposits, often associated with other minerals like quartz, feldspar, and tourmaline. Major deposits of lepidolite are found in countries like Brazil, the United States, Russia, Madagascar, and Zimbabwe.
Because lepidolite has a high lithium content, it is useful in many applications outside of mineral collecting. It is used in lithium-ion batteries for electronic devices and electric vehicles. It is also useful in the ceramics industry for its heat resistance and as a flux in the production of glass and enamel. Due to its high content of lithium, lepidolite is used in some nuclear reactor applications for its neutron-absorbing properties.
Did you know that lithium has been used in the treatment of bipolar disorder and depression, as lithium is known to have mood-stabilizing effects? This makes lepidolite helpful in the world of psychiatry and mental health.
When it comes to the metaphysical belief system, some believe that lepidolite has beneficial properties and use it as a healing stone for stress relief, emotional balance, and relaxation. This makes it a very popular stone for crystal collectors. Its brilliant luster and lovely coloring make it a desirable mineral for use in jewelry when carved into cabachons.
If you don't yet have lepidolite in your collection, don't worry! Lepidolite is widely available in very affordable prices. You can get it polished as a freeform, sphere, raw specimen, and even in combination with other minerals it forms with.