mineral
Sodalite
Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: typically royal blue to grey-blue with white calcite inclusions; Luster: vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
- Hardness
- 5
- Luster
- vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: typically royal blue to grey-blue with white calcite inclusions; Luster: vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
Formation & geological history
Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and phonolites. It often occurs in hydrothermal veins or associated with contact metamorphism in marbles.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry (beads, cabochons), for ornamental carvings, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Sodalite is often mistaken for Lapis Lazuli, but it lacks the gold-colored pyrite specks characteristic of Lapis. It was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 but became popular in the 1890s after vast deposits were found in Ontario, Canada.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its deep blue hue coupled with white veining. Unlike Lapis, it has a lower specific gravity and rarely contains pyrite. Major sources include Namibia, Brazil, Canada, and Russia.
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