mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5 to 6 on Mohs scale; Color: Royal blue, grey, or white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27 to 2.33

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue, grey, or white
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5 to 6 on Mohs scale; Color: Royal blue, grey, or white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27 to 2.33

Formation & geological history

Formed in sodium-rich igneous rocks (syenites, trachytes) and pegmatites. It crystallizes from hydrothermal fluids or magma deficient in silica.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (cabochons, beads), decorative carvings, and as a semi-precious gemstone. Sometimes used as a building material in luxury tiling.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often confused with Lapis Lazuli, but Sodalite rarely contains the golden pyrite flecks found in Lapis and has a lower specific gravity. It is the main component of the rock known as 'Blue Sodalite' or 'Princess Blue'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its rich blue color with white calcite veining and its lack of pyrite flecks. Commonly found in Bancroft (Ontario, Canada), Namibia, Brazil, and Russia.