Petalite - Spodumene's poorer cousin. Looks, smells, tastes the same. Just lower grade (mineral grade 4.9%Li2O, concentrate grade ~4%). A number of current producers out there. Concentration using similar methods to spodumene.
As it is similar to spodumene, typical decrepitation roasting and leaching to form lithium carbonate would be the processing route, but I dont know of anyone currently doing this (yet). Petalite usually sold into the glass and ceramic industry.
Pros: Existing market, clean
Cons: Lower grade, needs roasting to make lithium carbonate
DKO Price at posting:
5.5¢ Sentiment: None Disclosure: Not Held