Calculation of Basic and Diluted Earnings Per Share (Detail) (USD $) In Thousands, except Per Share data, unless otherwise specified	3 Months Ended		6 Months Ended
	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012	Jun. 30, 2013	Jun. 30, 2012
Basic earnings per share
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 82,739	$ 50,089	$ 166,726	$ 164,351
Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share	84,028	89,414	86,374	89,206
Basic earnings per share	$ 0.98	$ 0.56	$ 1.93	$ 1.84
Diluted earnings per share
Net income attributable to Albemarle Corporation	$ 82,739	$ 50,089	$ 166,726	$ 164,351
Weighted-average common shares for basic earnings per share	84,028	89,414	86,374	89,206
Incremental shares under stock compensation plans	461	637	488	793
Total shares	84,489	90,051	86,862	89,999
Diluted earnings per share	$ 0.98	$ 0.56	$ 1.92	$ 1.83