mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; vitreous to greasy luster; royal blue, navy, white, and grayish veins; cubic crystal system (typically massive in polished stones); specific gravity ~2.3.

Identified July 22, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; vitreous to greasy luster; royal blue, navy, white, and grayish veins; cubic crystal system (typically massive in polished stones); specific gravity ~2.3.

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor, alkali-rich igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and phonolites, as well as in associated pegmatites and contact metamorphic zones.

Uses & applications

Popular gemstone for lapidary work, cabochons, beads, polished tumbled stones, carved ornaments, and jewelry pendants.

Geological facts

Sodalite is named after its high sodium content. It is often confused with lapis lazuli, but sodalite typically lacks pyrite flecks and exhibits white calcite veining instead.

Field identification & locations

Field identification relies on its rich royal blue color intermingled with white veins, lack of brassy pyrite inclusions, and Mohs hardness of ~5.5-6. Commonly sourced from Canada (Ontario), Brazil, Namibia, Greenland, and Russia.