mineral
Sodalite
Sodium aluminum silicate chloride, Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness of 5.5 to 6, deep royal blue color often mottled with white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, and isometric crystal system.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6, deep royal blue color often mottled with white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, and isometric crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms in sodium-rich igneous rocks like nepheline syenites and pegmatites from cooling alkaline magmas.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as an ornamental stone, carved into decorative objects, and occasionally set into jewelry.
Geological facts
Sodalite often fluoresces a bright orange-pink under ultraviolet light due to trace mineral inclusions.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its rich blue color and lack of cleavage striations compared to lazurite; found worldwide in Canada, Brazil, and India.
