Lepidolite

specimen number:
2072347

location:
Itinga, Minas Gerais, Brazil

description:
Lustrous purple crystallized lepidolite across the top of matrix with minor albite. In good condition, quite attractive for the species.

The Itinga district, located in the Jequitinhonha Valley of Minas Gerais, Brazil, is a major component of the Eastern Brazilian Pegmatite Province. Geologically, the area is characterized by complex granitic pegmatites that intruded into Precambrian schists, undergoing extreme fractionation to produce high concentrations of lithium, cesium, and tantalum. The locality is particularly noted for its abundant lepidolite, a lithium-bearing mica that occurs as massive, fine-grained aggregates or as well-formed, scaly crystals in vibrant shades of lilac, purple, and magenta. Historically, mining and quarrying in the Itinga region became significant in the mid-20th century, with operations expanding rapidly during the 1970s and 1980s to meet global demand for lithium ores and gemstone specimens. Notable mines such as the Piau and Urubu have been primary sources for both industrial lepidolite and world-class collector pieces. As of 2026, Itinga remains a vital center for pegmatite mining, with current operations continuing to supply a diverse range of lithium minerals and associated gemstones to international markets.

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