mineral

Polished sodalite pendant

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂, likely with minor albite or nepheline

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Deep royal-blue, opaque to translucent, with cloudy white veining; vitreous to greasy luster and typically massive rather than visibly crystalline. Mohs hardness 5.5–6, poor cleavage, white streak, and specific gravity about 2.14–2.40; the metal setting and polishing are human-processed.

Identified August 21, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor, sodium-rich igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite and associated pegmatites, generally during Precambrian to younger alkaline magmatic activity. Important deposits occur in Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental and cabochon gemstone, beads, carvings, and jewelry; it has little industrial use compared with feldspar or nepheline. Value is mainly determined by color, pattern, size, polish, and silver craftsmanship.

Geological facts

It is commonly confused with lapis lazuli, but sodalite usually lacks abundant metallic-gold pyrite flecks. Strong blue color is associated with sulfur-bearing sodalite-group chemistry.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its intense blue color, white calcite-like patches, moderate hardness, and lack of pyrite; a scratch test should be avoided on jewelry. Common rough material comes from Ontario and Quebec, Canada, and Brazil.