Spodumene is a silicate mineral from the pyroxene group, an important source of lithium, and highly prized for its gemstone varieties. The most famous of these are the pink-violet Kunzite and the vivid green Hiddenite, captivating with their pure color and transparency. A less common yellow or colorless variety is known as Triphane. Spodumene crystals are often found in granite pegmatites and can reach impressive sizes, making them desirable objects for collectors.
Significant deposits are found in Brazil, Afghanistan, the USA (California, North Carolina), Madagascar, and Pakistan. Spodumene is often associated with other pegmatite minerals such as quartz, albite, lepidolite, beryl, and tourmaline. Beyond its industrial importance as a source of lithium, spodumene is highly valued in jewelry for its attractive pastel hues and beautiful luster after faceting. Kunzite is often associated with tenderness and elegance, while Hiddenite captivates with its fresh green color. The transparency and purity of the crystals make these stones popular for creating unique jewelry.
Spodumene is an excellent choice for mineral enthusiasts, collectors, and jewelers seeking stones with expressive colors and intriguing crystalline structures.
Physical properties
Chemical formula
LiAlSi₂O₆ (Lithium Aluminum Silicate)
Hardness
6.5 - 7 on the Mohs scale
Crystal system
Monoclinic
Transparency
Transparent to translucent
Luster
Vitreous, sometimes pearly on cleavage planes
Color
Colorless, gray, white, pink, lilac, violet (Kunzite), green (Hiddenite), yellow, yellowish-green (Triphane)
Specific gravity
3.15 - 3.21
Varieties
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