mineral

Decorative orb of likely sodalite-bearing rock or dyed stone

Most consistent with sodalite-rich nepheline syenite or a blue-and-white composite; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Polished spherical specimen with deep ultramarine-blue and white mottling, vitreous to glossy luster, and no visible cleavage. If sodalite-rich, hardness is about 5.5–6 Mohs and specific gravity about 2.2–2.4; the swirling surface may also indicate resin or glass binding.

Identified August 31, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Decorative orb of likely sodalite-bearing rock or dyed stone
Scientific name: Most consistent with sodalite-rich nepheline syenite or a blue-and-white composite; exact identification requires testing
Category: mineral
Identified: August 31, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $20–$100 for a decorative commercial orb; $100–$500+ if verified as high-quality natural sodalite-rich stone.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Natural sodalite forms in silica-poor alkaline igneous rocks, especially nepheline syenites, during late-stage crystallization. The orb has been cut and polished, and its highly flowing pattern could reflect lapidary reconstruction or stabilization rather than an unaltered rock.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental sphere, carving material, and collector specimen; genuine sodalite is occasionally used in jewelry and décor. Value depends strongly on whether it is natural, composite, dyed, or glass.

Geological facts

Sodalite is commonly royal blue with white calcite veins and is a principal component of some lapis lazuli. The perfectly glossy, fluid-looking blue boundaries are not diagnostic of natural sodalite alone.

Field identification & locations

Check with a loupe for bubbles, flow lines, or a resin seam; test an inconspicuous area for hardness and use ultraviolet light cautiously. Common natural sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia.