Lepidolite stone - properties, meaning and influence on the signs of the Zodiac

Lepidolite is a mineral with a scaly structure, which is why it received such an unusual name. The term “lepidolite” is made up of two Greek words: “lepis” means “scale”, and “lithos” means “stone”.

Lepidolite deposits

Lepidolite deposits are quite widespread.
The pink-colored mineral is mined in the Czech Republic, Sweden, USA, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Mozambique. Its large mines are also known, located in countries such as Australia, Brazil, Madagascar, Germany, and Italy. — Advertising —

As for Russia, lepidolite is mined here in the Urals, in the Krasnoyarsk Territory, in Transbaikalia, and on the Kola Peninsula.

The formation of deposits of this gem occurs under the action of lava, which breaks out at the junctions of the lithospheric layer in mountain ranges, on granite deposits.

Physical research methods

Lamellar lepidolite in pegmatite East Kazakhstan
Differential thermal analysis

Main lines on x-ray diffraction patterns: 4.47(8) - 3.36(10) - 2.84(8) - 2.58(10) - 2.012(10) - 1.695(8) - 1.634(8) - 1.492( 10).

Ancient methods. Under a blowpipe it easily fuses to form white enamel and colors the flame carmine red.

History of lepidolite

The name of the mineral “lepidolite” indicates its characteristic scaly structure.
It is translated from Greek as “scaly stone.” The discoverer of the mineral was the German chemist Martin Heinrich Klaprotha, who initially gave the find the name “lilalite.”
A little later, the stone was renamed “landrin” because of its characteristic lilac-lilac hue. The gem received its last name, which has stuck with it to this day, only at the end of the 19th century, when scientists studied its properties and structural features and found out that the stone is a closely welded scaly mica. Its individual scales are flexible and thin; they are very easy to bend, after which they regain their original appearance. A monolithic fusion of such scales is already a fairly strong structure. In addition to plates, it can be made in the form of a rosette and cone-shaped grain.

Compatibility with other stones

Lepidolite cabochons look good framed in gold and silver. When it comes to stones, it is best to pair this natural wonder with semi-precious gems so that its beauty is enhanced rather than overshadowed.

The mystical power of the stone will be more pronounced if it is adjacent to the following minerals in the decoration:

• kunzite;
• rubellite;
• rose quartz;
• charoite;
• pink beryl.

The color scheme will be delicate, enlivening any formal clothing.

Physicochemical characteristics of lepidolite

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The chemical composition of lepidolite is quite variable; the stone may contain varying amounts of potassium, lithium, aluminum, silicon oxides, as well as fluorine. It is also characterized by iron, manganese, calcium, sodium, cesium, and rubidium as impurities.

Lepidolite crystals usually have a purple center and white or light pink edges, with occasional shades of gray and yellow appearing in its color. They are distinguished by a glassy or pearly luster, transparent or translucent, with a monoclinic system.

Lepidolite most often forms as layered prismatic crystals with convex pinacoidal discontinuities, pseudo-hexagonal “books,” and mica or granular masses.

The cleavage of the mineral is perfect, the fracture is uneven. The hardness of the crystals on the Mohs scale is 2.5. The density is 2.8-2.90 g/cm3.

Associated minerals are quartz, feldspars, spodumene, amblygonites, and tourmalines.

Varieties of mineral

Although one of the names of the stone mentions purple, its color is not limited to this color. There are nuggets in the following shades:

• white;
• violet;
• violet-gray;
• lilac;
• yellow;
• grey;
• pink;
• peachy red.

Sometimes the name of the mineral is used, depending on the shade. Light stones, close to the color of lavender, are popularly called lavanderin, brighter ones - lilalite. The crystal with a pronounced layered-spherical structure is officially named the Eye of Barbot (after the name of the famous geologist).

Sometimes the color of the mineral is concentrated in the center, while the edges remain light. The surface of lepidolite sparkles like pearls, but there are also duller specimens. In any case, the surface of the stone seems to be covered with gloss - albeit slightly, but shiny.

There are nuggets of various shapes: in the form of a plate, a cone or a layer resembling a rosette. The stone may look translucent, but it should not be completely visible in sunlight - this is a sign of a fake.

Magical properties of lepidolite

Previously, the magical properties of lepidolite were used quite rarely, but today the gem is becoming more and more popular for these purposes.
Thus, it effectively relieves irritation and other negative emotions. As a home talisman it becomes a source of quiet family happiness. It helps especially well if you leave a lit candle nearby. The stone is considered an amplifier of feminine energy and protects family happiness. The stone will protect a sensitive owner from disappointments in love and unrealistic hopes. At the same time, it does not so much help in solving problem situations as prevent their occurrence. He can also suggest the correct solution to problems, but he will not correct a mistake that has already been made. For example, if a man left his family, lepidolite cannot return him, but the stone can keep him from taking this step. Thus, it is important to turn to the gem for help in time.

The magical properties of lepidolite help with calming procedures and meditation. Contemplation of the mineral gives peace and eliminates earthly petty passions and vanity.

Lepidolite amulets are recommended for creative people whose psyche is unstable. In this case, he helps to solve creative problems without worry, in a calm and productive state. The stone also attracts success and recognition to the owner.

The magic of purple scales

Since lepidolite is one of the later discoveries, little studied and not described in sufficient detail, its magical abilities did not attract esotericists for a long time. However, the younger generation of magicians and psychics became interested in the stone, using the mineral at first for meditation, gradually studying other magical facets.

Today, esotericists focus on the following magical aspects of the use of lepidolite:

• The mineral acts as a sedative, which allows the owner to escape from the routine, concentrating on the main thing. This helps you make important life decisions without feeling discouraged or depressed.
• People of art and science can cultivate intellectual potential using this stone. Such a talisman can handle problems of a spiritual and creative nature, however, it will not be possible to solve financial issues with this stone.
• The mineral is able to harmonize family relationships, for which quarrels are a frequent guest. Wearing an amulet will relieve spouses of negativity and prevent the outburst of emotions that give rise to conflicts.

The mineral has a special influence on the fair half of humanity - the woman becomes softer, more flexible, and wiser. The talisman gives the owner the qualities of an excellent housewife.

Interesting fact! Esotericists do not advise people whose profession is related to finance or trade to purchase lepidolite as a talisman - material values ​​are alien to this mineral, the resolution of financial issues will be hampered, and plans will be destroyed.

At the same time, the amulet attracts success and gives the ability to gain recognition. This is important for artists, musicians, poets. These people are more susceptible to depression than others and are able to go into a world of fantasy, forgetting about reality. Lepidolite will protect the psyche of such a person, help cope with emotions, and protect physical health.

Also read: Sphene – shining like a diamond

The healing properties of lepidolite

Lepidolite is used to relieve neuralgic diseases.
In these cases, amulets made from it are applied to sore spots or carried with them. They exhibit analgesic and sedative properties. The gem eliminates stress in the body that leads to neuroses, and thus helps in their treatment. Lepidolite is also recommended for depression and psychosis. Its regular use helps to recover from schizophrenia and manic depressive states. In addition, the gem is a good helper for insomnia and nightmares. For various diseases of the cardiovascular system, the power of lepidolite is also used, namely its ability to increase muscle tone.

Price

Despite the rarity of the stone and the complexity of its processing, jewelry made from pure lepidolite (that is, without combination with quartz) can still be purchased. Since costume jewelry is mainly made from this mineral, the cost of jewelry made from it is low (price/rub.):

• pendant without frame - from 2000 ;
• alloy earrings - 500–2500 (sometimes up to 9000) ;
• ring - 700–5000 (depending on the jewelry alloy);
• beads made from small beads from Brazilian mineral - from 3500 ;
• egg 60 x 40 mm - from 3500 ;
• cabochon size 42 x 19 x 1 mm - from 350 .

Applications for lepidolite

Most mined lepidolite is used industrially to produce lithium, the lightest metal needed for the production of batteries, laser machines, pharmaceuticals, and even for the disposal of nuclear waste.
Lithium is also needed in the production of opal and white glass. As for jewelry, in this case, due to the scaly structure and high cleavage of the crystals, it is difficult to process lepidolite. In addition, individual high-quality crystals suitable for cutting are rare. Specimens of unusual shape and color are valued in mineralogical collections. Therefore, the mined mineral is carefully sorted in search of jewelry and collectible samples.

Large specimens of lepidolite are cabochon cut, but they are rarely used in jewelry; they are used to make boxes, snuff boxes, flowerpots and other round and spherical interior items, which, after processing and polishing, are distinguished not only by their beauty, but also by their high strength and resistance to wear .

How to care for lepidolite

As a fragile stone, lepidolite requires careful and careful handling. Products with it are stored in separate boxes, wrapped in soft cloth. To clean, use a mild soap solution, after which the product is rinsed in cool running water and dried well with a soft cloth.

Lepidolite and zodiac sign

Lepidolite is best combined with representatives of the zodiac sign Libra. These people are known to be subject to mood swings and frequent fluctuations in decisions. Thanks to its properties, lepidolite helps them find peace and balance, inner harmony and agreement with themselves.

What astrologers say

According to astrological material, lepidolite correlates with the sign of Libra, which belongs to the air element. However, all representatives of air signs are characterized by lability of mood and some lack of understanding of their own needs. Jewelry and amulets made from this stone contribute to finding inner balance, and as a result, stabilizing relationships with loved ones, colleagues, and just acquaintances.

In principle, to one degree or another, lepidolite is suitable for all signs of the Zodiac. However, there are cases of individual intolerance. This becomes noticeable in the first few minutes of interaction with the stone. If a person does not immediately feel ill, then there is no “allergy”.

Interesting facts about lepidolite

In jewelry, when polishing and cutting lepidolite samples, two main problems arise: perfect cleavage and low hardness of the stone. During grinding, the mineral easily crumbles, especially when structured from finely scaly aggregates. For this reason, jewelers often do not use independent lepidolite intergrowths, but process quartz with its inclusions. Such specimens of quartz can be easily given a rectangular, spherical or other shape, and the lepidolite is not damaged and can be admired.

Quotes

Collectors are chasing well-cut specimens of non-standard colors, especially when intergrown with other minerals. For each such sample, unimaginable sums of money are paid.

Below are prices for lepidolite in Russian stores:

• Galvanized pebble with a diameter of about 35 mm - the cost can vary significantly from 300 to 1200 rubles;
• Lithium ore concentrate with dimensions 105x56x50 mm - 1.5 thousand;
• Ore with tourmaline inclusions with dimensions 70x52x47 mm – 900 rubles;
• Zonal ore concentrate with dimensions 59x42x2 mm - 350;
• Lepidolite egg with tourmaline inclusions 53x40 mm – 3660 rubles;
• Ball (with inclusions of tourmaline, feldspar) with a diameter of 75 mm - 7200.