mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2 (Sodium Aluminum Silicate Chloride)

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or pink; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or pink
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or pink; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Formation & geological history

Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and phonolites. It can also form during hydrothermal processes or contact metamorphism of marbles. Geological age varies by deposit, ranging from Precambrian to Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a gemstone for jewelry (cabochons and beads), ornamental carvings, and architectural finishing (rarely). It is also highly valued by collectors of fluorescent minerals.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often known as 'Princess Blue' because it was discovered in Ontario, Canada, during a royal visit by Princess Margaret in 1901. It is a major component of Lapis Lazuli, but Sodalite lacks the golden pyrite flecks common in Lapis.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its intense blue color and characteristic white calcite veins. It is found in large quantities in Bancroft (Ontario), Brazil, Greenland, and Namibia. Unlike Lapis Lazuli, it has a lower specific gravity and rarely contains golden inclusions.

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