mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2 (Sodium Aluminum Silicate Chloride)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 5.5 to 6 on Mohs scale; Color: typically denim blue with white streaks or patches of calcite; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27 to 2.33.

Hardness: 5
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified April 4, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks (alkaline rocks) such as nepheline syenites and phonolites. It can also occur in contact metasomatic rocks. Most commercial deposits are millions of years old.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for ornamental purposes, such as jewelry (beads, cabochons), carvings, and architectural finishing. It is also a popular specimen for crystal healing and metaphysical collecting.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often mistaken for Lapis Lazuli, but unlike Lapis, Sodalite rarely contains gold-colored pyrite specks. It was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 and became popular after the Princess of Wales visited a Canadian deposit in 1901.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its distinctive 'denim' blue color and white calcite veins. Unlike Azurite, it will not react strongly to dilute acid. Commonly found in Bancroft (Ontario), Brazil, Namibia, and Russia.