mineral

Polished blue stone, likely sodalite or dyed agate

Sodalite: Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Small tumbled specimen with dark blue color, glossy vitreous-to-waxy luster, and no visible crystal faces or cleavage. Sodalite has Mohs hardness 5.5–6 and specific gravity about 2.2–2.4; the image alone cannot distinguish it confidently from dyed agate, blue aventurine, or lapis lazuli.

Identified August 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

If sodalite, it formed in silica-poor, alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite, generally during Precambrian to younger geological events. If dyed agate, it formed as chalcedony filling volcanic cavities and was later artificially colored and polished.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative carving and inexpensive lapidary material; sodalite is also made into beads, cabochons, and ornaments. It has limited industrial use.

Geological facts

Sodalite commonly shows white calcite veining, while lapis lazuli often contains brassy pyrite; neither is clearly visible here. A strong, uniform blue color may indicate dye treatment.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia for sodalite, while agate is widespread globally. Check hardness, streak, translucency, and dye concentration in cracks; avoid destructive testing on finished pieces.