mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5 to 6 on Mohs scale; Color: Royal blue to deep blue with characteristic white veinings of calcite; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.2 to 2.3.

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites, phonolites, and associated pegmatites. It crystallizes from sodium-rich magmas and can also be found in metasomatized skarns.

Uses & applications

Used extensively as a gemstone for cabochons, beads, and carvings, as well as an ornamental stone in interior decoration and jewelry making.

Geological facts

Sodalite is famous for its rich blue color and is often confused with lapis lazuli, but sodalite rarely contains pyrite inclusions and is typically more translucent with distinctive white calcite streaks. It fluoresces an orange-yellow color under ultraviolet light.

Field identification & locations

Identified by its deep blue hue interwoven with white calcite veins and medium hardness. Commonly found in Canada (Bancroft, Ontario), Brazil, Namibia, Greenland, and Russia. A popular stone for beginner mineral collectors.