mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite (Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5.5 - 6 on Mohs scale; Color: deep royal blue, denim blue, with white/gray veining (typically calcite or nepheline); Luster: vitreous to greasy; Crystal system: isometric; Specific gravity: 2.27 - 2.33.

Hardness: 5
Luster: vitreous to greasy

Identified October 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor, alkali-rich igneous environments such as nepheline syenites, phonolites, and related pegmatites, as well as metasomatized marbles.

Uses & applications

Commonly carved and polished into decorative objects, ornamental eggs, cabochons, beads for jewelry, and tumbled stones. Also used occasionally as architectural trim.

Geological facts

Sodalite was named for its high sodium content. It often fluoresces a strong orange-peach color under long-wave ultraviolet light, distinguishing it readily from lapis lazuli, which typically contains visible pyrite flecks.

Field identification & locations

Can be identified by its characteristic deep royal-blue color intergrown with creamy-white calcite or nepheline patches, lacking golden pyrite inclusions. Major localities include Bancroft (Ontario, Canada), Bahia (Brazil), Greenland, and Namibia.