mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale. Color: Royal blue to denim blue, often mottled with white calcite veins. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Poor in six directions. Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.4.

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 23, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites, phonolites, and associated pegmatites. It crystallizes during the late stage of alkaline magmatic activity.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone, for carving, cabochons, beads, and architectural inlays. Also prized by mineral collectors.

Geological facts

Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811, but became immensely popular after vast deposits were discovered in Ontario, Canada, in 1891 during a visit by the Princess of Wales, leading it to be nicknamed 'Princess Blue'.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its rich blue color and white veins, distinguished from lapis lazuli by the lack of brassy pyrite flecks. Commonly found in Canada (Bancroft, Ontario), Brazil, Namibia, Russia, and Greenland.