mineral
Sodalite in Matrix (Sunset Sodalite)
Sodalite Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2
Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Royal blue to grey/white with orange or black inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Royal blue to grey/white with orange or black inclusions
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Sodalite in Matrix (Sunset Sodalite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Royal blue to grey/white with orange or black inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
Formation & geological history
Forms in sodium-rich igneous rocks (nepheline syenites) through crystallization from silicate magmas or hydrothermal processes. Major deposits are found in alkaline intrusive complexes.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative carvings, lapidary items like this polished sphere, jewelry (cabochons), and as a collector's specimen.
Geological facts
Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 but became commercially popular after large deposits were found in Ontario, Canada, during a royal visit by Princess Margaret of Connaught, earning it the nickname 'Princess Blue'.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its rich blue color striped with white calcite or veins of black/grey/orange matrix. It often fluoresces a bright orange under long-wave UV light. Found in Canada, Brazil, Greenland, and Namibia.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous