Lepidolite is a lithium-rich mineral that is used in ceramics primarily as a flux, playing a crucial role in lowering the melting point of glazes, allowing them to vitrify at lower temperatures. Lepidolite is especially useful in the manufacture of low-temperature ceramics, such as earthenware, where complete vitrification is required without the need for extremely high temperatures.
In addition to its properties as a flux, lepidolite has the ability to modify glaze colors, producing clayl shades. Colors derived from lepidolite can include shades such as pinks, lilacs, pale greens or soft blues, which are difficult to obtain with other fluxes without the need to subject the pieces to high temperatures. In particular, lepidolite is used to obtain translucent glazes that provide a soft and luminous finish to ceramic pieces.
Interesting Fact
Lithium extracted from lepidolite is widely used in the technology industry to produce lithium-ion batteries, which power everything from cell phones to electric vehicles.
Helpful Tip
If you wish to work at lower temperatures and obtain glazes with clayl shades, lepidolite is an excellent addition to your glazes. Test the glaze to make sure the color and texture are as desired.
