Rock Identifier
Polished blue stone, likely sodalite (Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂; possibly blue-dyed jasper or lapis lazuli) — mineral
mineral

Polished blue stone, likely sodalite

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂; possibly blue-dyed jasper or lapis lazuli

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque blue, fine-grained, polished with vitreous-to-waxy luster; sodalite hardness 5.5–6, cubic structure, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.3. The image alone cannot distinguish sodalite confidently from lapis lazuli or dyed material; white-gray veining and abundant pyrite would favor lapis.

Identified More mineral
Explore Polished blue stone, likely sodalite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

Physical properties

Opaque blue, fine-grained, polished with vitreous-to-waxy luster; sodalite hardness 5.5–6, cubic structure, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.3. The image alone cannot distinguish sodalite confidently from lapis lazuli or dyed material; white-gray veining and abundant pyrite would favor lapis.

Formation & geological history

Sodalite forms in silica-poor, alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite, generally in Precambrian to younger alkaline complexes. Lapis lazuli forms metamorphically in marble, while blue jasper is silica-rich and commonly sedimentary or volcanic-derived.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative stone, cabochon, bead, carving material, and inexpensive jewelry stone; lapis lazuli has additional ornamental and historical pigment use.

Geological facts

Natural sodalite is typically royal to denim blue with white calcite veining and usually lacks visible metallic pyrite. A saturated, uniform blue color may indicate dyeing.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia; lapis is especially associated with Afghanistan and Chile. Check hardness, streak, magnification, and dye concentration in cracks; avoid acid or destructive tests.