The Mineral lithiophilite
Lithiophilite
is an
end member of the Triphylite
series, with Lithiophilite being the manganese-rich end member, and
Triphylite being the iron-rich end member. Lithiophilite and Triphylite both commonly
alter to secondary
phosphates such as
Vivianite, as well as to manganese and iron
oxides.
Lithiophilite was named for its lithium content ("lithio"), and the Greek term, "philos", meaning friend, alluding to its composition of lithium as an integral component of its structure.
Chemical Formula
Li(Mn2+)PO4
Color
Peach orange, yellow, yellowish-red, light pink, reddish brown, brown, gray
Crystal System
Orthorhombic
Properties
Streak
Colorless to light gray |
Hardness
4 |
Transparency
Transparent to translucent |
Specific Gravity
3.3 - 3.6 |
Luster
Vitreous, greasy |
Cleavage
1,1;3,2 |
Fracture
Uneven |
Tenacity
Brittle |
Crystal Habits
Mostly in massive or compact form. Distinct crystals are uncommon, any they are usually tabular or prismatic with blocky form. Microcrystals may be well formed as thin, slender elongated crystals and groupings. Cleavage fragments also exist, with distinct crystal faces within massive forms or rough crystals in matrix.
Noteworthy Localities
Lithiophilite is not common, and good examples of this mineral are relatively scarce. Large crystals, replaced by black oxides have come from the Stewart Mine, Pala, Pala District, San Diego Co., California. Transparent microcrystals, in fully transparent form as elongated brown crystals, were found at the Foote Lithium Mine, Cleveland Co., North Carolina. In Connecticut, massive Lithiophilite has come from the Fillow Quarry, Branchville, Fairfield Co.; and the Strickland Quarry, Portland, Middlesex Co. Large, dark gray, altered crystals have come from the Emmons Quarry, Greenwood, Oxford Co., Maine.
Common Mineral Associations
Quartz, Albite, Lepidolite, Muscovite