mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)

Hardness: 5.5 to 6; Color: Royal blue to lavender with white veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27 to 2.33

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue to lavender with white veining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified May 10, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5 to 6; Color: Royal blue to lavender with white veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27 to 2.33

Formation & geological history

Forms primarily in alkaline igneous rocks like nepheline syenites and phonolites. It is created through the cooling of silica-poor magmas.

Uses & applications

Commonly used as a gemstone for jewelry, ornamental carvings, beads, and as a collector's specimen. It is sometimes used as a substitute for Lapis Lazuli.

Geological facts

Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 but became popular in the late 1800s after large deposits were found in Ontario, Canada. It is often called Princess Blue because of its discovery during a royal visit.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinct blue color and white streaks of calcite. Unlike Lapis Lazuli, it rarely contains golden pyrite specks. It is a major component of the rock Sodalite-syenite.