mineral
Blue sodalite beads
Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectDeep royal-blue, commonly mottled with white calcite and occasional gray or black veining; vitreous to greasy luster, granular crystal structure, Mohs hardness 5.5–6, and no prominent cleavage. The rounded beads are polished and drilled, so they are human-processed geological material.
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Physical properties
Deep royal-blue, commonly mottled with white calcite and occasional gray or black veining; vitreous to greasy luster, granular crystal structure, Mohs hardness 5.5–6, and no prominent cleavage. The rounded beads are polished and drilled, so they are human-processed geological material.
Formation & geological history
Sodalite forms in silica-poor, sodium-rich igneous rocks, especially nepheline syenites and related alkaline complexes, through late-stage magmatic crystallization. Not typically assigned a single geological age; deposits range from Precambrian to younger alkaline intrusions.
Uses & applications
Used as an ornamental stone, beads, carvings, cabochons, and decorative objects; rarely used as an industrial mineral. Jewelry value comes mainly from its saturated blue color and attractive white veining.
Geological facts
Its blue color is produced by sulfur-related defects in the crystal structure. It is often confused with lapis lazuli, but lapis commonly contains abundant golden pyrite and is a rock rather than a single mineral.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by its intense blue color, white calcite patches, moderate hardness, and lack of abundant metallic pyrite. Important sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, Russia, and Afghanistan.
