The distribution of lithium resources in China is characterized by the conjunction and proximity of brine- type and hard- rock- type resources. Over the years, the “multi- cycle, deep circulation, integration of internal and external” theory of lithium has evolved and improved through extensive prospecting practice and theoretical research on rare metal minerals.Chinas lithium deposits have formed in relation to “multi- cyclic” tectonic movements, spanning from the Precambrian to the Cenozoic era, resulting in a comprehensive range of ore- forming cycles. The “deep circulation” of lithium involves two key aspects: firstly, lithiums extensive participation in the material cycle of sedimentary and mineralization processes; secondly, the need for a “trap” tectonic setting to capture lithium to prevent excessive dispersion.The depth difference, from initial addition to the magma to final positioning, plays a crucial role in the formation of hard- rock lithium deposits, with greater pressure differentials being more conducive to the formation of pegmatite lithium deposits. Numerous examples of lithium deposits demonstrate that the material cycle of lithium is an “integration of internal and external genesis” process.Lithium- bearing geological bodies in mountains (even directly as lithium deposits) can serve as a source of material for sedimentary lithium deposits after undergoing weathering and erosion. Rich lithium- bearing sedimentary rocks, upon burial, metamorphism, and remelting, can also form lithium- bearing magmatic and pegmatitic rocks.Various basins in western China, such as the Tarim basin, Sichuan basin, and Zhabuye basin, as well as the basins in eastern China, including the Jianghan basin, Jitai basin, and Zhoutian basin, are known to possess significant lithium resources.Additionally, the surrounding orogenic belts in these basins also contain varying degrees of hard rock lithium deposits, providing guidance for regional prospecting. The “multi- cycle, deep circulation, integration of internal and external” theory of lithium formation represents a significant component of the rare metal mineralization theory, offering guidance and reference for lithium prospecting in China. This theory has played a positive role in the prospecting practice of lithium ore concentration areas such as Jiajika, Keeryin, Aerjin, and Mufushan.