mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2 (Sodalite)

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue to violet-blue with white or grey streaks/mottling; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks (nepheline syenites and phonolites) and associated pegmatites. It forms through magmatic crystallization in environments lacking enough silica to form feldspar.

Uses & applications

Commonly used for ornamental carvings, beads, cabochons for jewelry, and as an architectural stone for countertops or inlay work.

Geological facts

Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 but became extremely popular after large deposits were found in Ontario, Canada in 1891. It is often called 'Princess Blue' in Canada because Princess Margaret visited the Bancroft mines and chose the stone for her residence, Marlborough House.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its intense blue color and association with white calcite veins. Unlike Lapis Lazuli, it rarely contains gold-colored pyrite specks. Common locations include Bancroft (Ontario), Brazil, Namibia, Greenland, and Russia.