mineral
Sodalite
Sodalite (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Royal blue to lavender with white veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Royal blue to lavender with white veining
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6.0 Mohs; Color: Royal blue to lavender with white veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
Formation & geological history
Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites or in metasomatized calcareous rocks. Commonly associated with pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in jewelry as beads and cabochons, as an ornamental stone for carvings and countertops, and popular among mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Sodalite is often confused with Lapis Lazuli, but Sodalite lacks the golden pyrite flecks common in Lapis. It can also exhibit fluorescence under UV light.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its deep blue color and white calcite streaks. It is common in regions like Brazil, Canada (Bancroft), and Namibia. It feels lighter than lapis or blue quartz.
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Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary