mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite (Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2)

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs), Color: Royal blue to dark blue with white calcite streaks, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Cubic, Specific gravity: 2.27-2.33

Hardness: 5

Identified June 2, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs), Color: Royal blue to dark blue with white calcite streaks, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal structure: Cubic, Specific gravity: 2.27-2.33

Formation & geological history

Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and phonolites, as well as in contact metamorphic rocks. It develops in environments where sodium and aluminum are abundant but silica is deficient.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone in necklaces, earrings, and rings. Also used for ornamental carvings, interior decoration (tabletops, tiles), and as a collector's specimen.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often mistaken for Lapis Lazuli, but unlike Lapis, it rarely contains golden pyrite inclusions and is significantly lower in density. It was first discovered in Greenland in 1806 and became popular as an ornamental stone in 1891 after a large deposit was found in Ontario, Canada.

Field identification & locations

Check for a rich blue color with white veining (usually calcite). It can be identified in the field by its association with nepheline. It often exhibits orange fluorescence under ultraviolet light. Common locations include Canada (Bancroft), Namibia, Brazil, and Russia.