Lithiophyllite

Lithiophyllite is a rare, naturally occurring mineral composed of lithium, manganese, and iron phosphate. Its chemical formula is Li(Mn,Fe)PO4. It is a member of the triphylite-lithiophyllite series, where lithiophyllite represents the manganese-rich endmember and triphylite is the iron-rich endmember. The color of lithiophyllite typically ranges from pale pink, reddish-brown, to yellowish-brown. It is known for its vitreous luster and is often found in granular or massive forms.

This mineral is primarily found in lithium-bearing pegmatites, which are igneous rocks that form during the final stages of magma crystallization. It is often associated with other lithium minerals such as spodumene and lepidolite, as well as feldspar, quartz, and mica. Significant occurrences have been reported in locations such as the Black Hills of South Dakota, USA, and the Varuträsk pegmatite in Sweden.

Lithiophyllite is not a significant source of lithium economically, as more abundant minerals like spodumene are preferred for industrial extraction. However, its presence in pegmatites is an indicator of lithium potential. Due to its rarity and attractive coloration, lithiophyllite can be of interest to mineral collectors. It is generally considered a relatively soft mineral, with a Mohs hardness typically between 4.5 and 5.