mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite - Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: deep royal blue, grey, or purple with white calcite veins; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Hardness: 5
Color: deep royal blue, grey, or purple with white calcite veins
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified March 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and phonolites. It occurs in hydrothermal environments and pegmatites through the cooling of alkaline magmas.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone for carvings, beads, and cabochons in jewelry. It is also used as dimension stone for architectural accents and countertops.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often mistaken for Lapis Lazuli, but lacks the gold-colored pyrite inclusions. It was discovered in Greenland in 1811 and became famous after Princess Margaret of England chose it as a decorative stone for her home.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinct rich blue color and white veins (calcite). It will often fluoresce a bright orange-red under ultraviolet (UV) light. Common locations include Canada (Bancroft), Namibia, Brazil, and Russia.