mineral

Sodalite

Sodium Aluminum Silicate Chloride (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or green; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or green
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified June 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or green; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33

Formation & geological history

Commonly forms in igneous rocks that crystallized from sodium-rich magmas, specifically nepheline syenites and phonolites. It orignates in silica-poor environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings, and as a decorative stone in architecture (slabs for countertops or tiles).

Geological facts

Sodalite is often confused with Lapis Lazuli; however, Sodalite rarely contains the golden pyrite flecks found in Lapis. It is a member of the feldspathoid mineral group.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its rich blue color and white veins of calcite. It will often fluoresce a bright orange-red under long-wave UV light. Found in Canada (Bancroft), Brazil, and Namibia.