Lepidolite (gemmy crystal)

Item Description

Although we have this piece labeled as Lepidolite, I would like to start by saying that Lepidolite is no longer a valid mineral species. According to the information available online, Lepidolite is defined as a mineral in the so-called Polylithionite-Trilithionite series, but everybody still uses the term Lepidolite when describing this specific kind of Mica. This piece is a wonderfully color and fine quality miniature with rather sharp, well-formed faces, free of matrix. When backlit, the color really comes through, and the specimen is still notably gemmy, despite the relative thickness with a rich pinkish-purple hue. Mica species are rarely this colorful or gemmy, and this piece is fine quality and showy to boot! Don't miss out on this one, it's a very good specimen of Lepidolite. Valued at $1,000.
From the collection of famous mineral dealer and collector Richard ("Rich") A. Kosnar (1946-2007), who was the namesake for the phosphate Kosnarite. Rich had a strong presence in Brazil in the 1970s when he imported many gem crystals during that period.