mineral
Sodalite
Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2 (Sodium Aluminum Silicate Chloride)
Hardness: 5.5 to 6 on Mohs scale. Color: Royal blue to denim blue with white calcite veins/mottling. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal system: Isometric. Specific gravity: 2.14 to 2.40. Poor to fair cleavage.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Royal blue to denim blue with white calcite veins/mottling
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5 to 6 on Mohs scale. Color: Royal blue to denim blue with white calcite veins/mottling. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal system: Isometric. Specific gravity: 2.14 to 2.40. Poor to fair cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites, phonolites, and associated pegmatites. It crystallizes directly from alkaline magma or forms through metasomatic processes.
Uses & applications
Popular as a gemstone for jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, decorative tumbled stones, and ornamental architectural uses. Historically used as an ornamental stone.
Geological facts
Sodalite is often confused with Lapis Lazuli, but Sodalite typically lacks the golden pyrite inclusions found in Lapis and features prominent white calcite streaks instead.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its rich blue color with white calcite veining and lack of brassy pyrite. Major localities include Bancroft (Ontario, Canada), Brazil, Namibia, Greenland, and Russia.
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