mineral

Sodalite and Calcite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2 (Sodalite) and CaCO3 (Calcite)

Hardness: 5.5-6 for Sodalite, 3 for Calcite; Color: Royal blue/periwinkle mixed with white or peach/orange; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Structure: Cubic (Sodalite), Trigonal (Calcite); Specific Gravity: 2.3 (Sodalite), 2.7 (Calcite)

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue/periwinkle mixed with white or peach/orange
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks like nepheline syenites and phonolites, or in metamorphic marbles through contact metasomatism. Most often associated with alkaline magmas.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for ornamental carvings, jewelry (cabochons), as an architectural stone, and for metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often mistaken for Lapis Lazuli but can be distinguished by the lack of golden pyrite specks. Many specimens from the Bancroft, Ontario region are quite well-known.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its rich blue color striping against white or pale calcite. In the field, look for its association with nepheline. It will glow bright orange or yellow under short-wave UV light.

Other mineral specimens

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Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Schist

Metamorphic

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral