Lithium Quartz
A variety of Quartz
What is Lithium Quartz?
Lithium Quartz is a trading name for the pink or purple translucent to opaque variety of quartz. Little is known about this stone, only that it possibly contains inclusions of the chemical element lithium. There are only a few localities that mine for it. It is often sold in the form of crystals.
Optical Properties
- Refractive Index
- 1.544-1.553
- Birefringence
- 0.009
- Pleochroism
- Weakly dichroic
- Optical Character
- Biaxial positive
- Dispersion
- 0.013
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Lithium Quartz before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Lithium Quartz Localities Map
See where Lithium Quartz is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Health & Safety Information
- ⚠️Lithium Quartz in powdered form can be toxic due to its Crystalline Silica content.
- ⚠️Quartz, silica, crystalline silica and flint are non-toxic materials, but very fine dust containing quartz, known as respirable crystalline silicon (RCS), can cause serious and fatal lung disease. Lapidaries should exercise caution when cutting silica.
- ⚠️Lithium Quartz is typically non-toxic unless it's in powder form. Long-term exposure to finely ground powder may lead to silicosis. Therefore, when cutting or polishing lithium Quartz, be sure to wear a dust mask to avoid inhaling its dust.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Pink, purple
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 7
- Density
- 2.64 - 2.69 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
- Luster
- Vitreous
- Crystal System
- Trigonal
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- SiO2
- Elements
- O, Si
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Lithium Quartz FAQs
How do I identify Lithium Quartz?
Lithium Quartz can be identified by its hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale, Pink color, Vitreous luster, Trigonal crystal system. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Lithium Quartz?
Lithium Quartz typically appears in Pink, purple. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Lithium Quartz?
Lithium Quartz has a hardness of 7 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a relatively hard mineral suitable for jewelry.
