mineral

Blue-gray tumbled stone, likely sodalite

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂; identification is tentative from the photograph

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque blue-gray with darker veining or mottling and a dull-to-waxy luster; hardness about 5.5–6 Mohs, vitreous when freshly fractured, commonly massive rather than visibly crystalline, and lacking obvious cleavage in the tumbled form.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

Explore Blue-gray tumbled stone, likely sodalite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Sodalite forms in silica-poor, alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite, crystallizing from magma during the Phanerozoic. Major sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental and lapidary stone for cabochons, carvings, beads, and tumbled specimens; rarely used industrially.

Geological facts

It is commonly confused with dyed howlite or low-grade lapis lazuli; unlike lapis, sodalite generally lacks abundant metallic-gold pyrite flecks.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its medium-to-deep blue color, white or gray calcite-like patches, relatively low hardness, and absence of glittering pyrite. A streak, hardness, specific-gravity, or mineralogical test would be needed for confirmation.