mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: Deep blue, royal blue, often with white calcite veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33; Cleavage: Poor, dodecahedral

Hardness: 5
Color: Deep blue, royal blue, often with white calcite veining
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, pegmatites, and associated alkaline metamorphic rocks. It crystallizes from sodium-rich magmas.

Uses & applications

Used extensively as an ornamental stone, for tumbled gemstones, carvings, beads, and cabochons in jewelry. Also collected by rockhounding enthusiasts.

Geological facts

Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 but became hugely popular as an ornamental stone after vast deposits were discovered in Ontario, Canada, during a royal visit in 1891 (hence sometimes called Princess Blue).

Field identification & locations

Identified by its rich blue color and characteristic white calcite veins or patches. Unlike lapis lazuli, sodalite rarely contains flecks of golden pyrite. Commonly found in Canada (Ontario), Brazil, Namibia, Russia, and the USA.