mineral
Sodalite
Sodalite (Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2)
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs), Color: Royal blue to gray/white, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometry, Cleavage: Poor, Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33
- Hardness
- 5
Identified More mineral →
Explore Sodalite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs), Color: Royal blue to gray/white, Luster: Vitreous to greasy, Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometry, Cleavage: Poor, Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33
Formation & geological history
Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and phonolites, or in metamorphic environments involving sodium-rich fluids.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for ornamental purposes, jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and as a collector's mineral.
Geological facts
Sodalite is often confused with Lapis Lazuli, but it lacks the golden pyrite inclusions usually found in Lapis. It also exhibits fluorescence under UV light, often glowing orange.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its intense blue color and association with alkali-rich igneous rocks. Found commonly in Brazil, Canada (Bancroft), Namibia, and Russia.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous