mineral
Sodalite
Na4Al3(SiO4)3Cl
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, deep royal blue color often mottled with white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, and cubic crystal system.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, deep royal blue color often mottled with white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, and cubic crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks like nepheline syenites from sodium-rich silica-poor magmas, crystallizing in plutonic environments.
Uses & applications
Widely used as an ornamental gemstone, for carved decorative objects, and as a collector specimen.
Geological facts
Sodalite is the primary mineral component of the ornamental stone lapis lazuli, and it fluoresces a bright orange-pink under ultraviolet light.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its characteristic royal blue color and distinctive white calcite veining; commonly found in Canada, Greenland, and Brazil.
