mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Royal blue to gray-blue, often with white calcite veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue to gray-blue, often with white calcite veining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Royal blue to gray-blue, often with white calcite veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks that crystallized from sodium-rich magmas, specifically in nepheline syenites and phonolites. It is most commonly found in silica-poor environments.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone for jewelry, ornamental carvings, architectural surfaces (countertops), and as a collector's mineral specimen.

Geological facts

Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 and became popular as an ornamental stone after a large deposit was found in Ontario, Canada, in 1891 during a royal visit; it is sometimes called Princess Blue.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic royal blue color and the presence of white calcite streaks. Unlike Lapis Lazuli, it rarely contains yellow pyrite flecks. Commonly found in Bancroft (Ontario), Greenland, Brazil, and Namibia.