mineral
Sodalite
Sodalite (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)
Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale. Color: Royal blue to grey-blue with white calcite inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric. Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33. Cleavage: Poor.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- Royal blue to grey-blue with white calcite inclusions
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale. Color: Royal blue to grey-blue with white calcite inclusions. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric. Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33. Cleavage: Poor.
Formation & geological history
Forms in silica-poor igneous rocks (nepheline syenites and phonolites) and some contact metamorphic rocks. Commonly associated with pegmatites.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as an ornamental stone, for jewelry (beads and cabochons), and as a collector's specimen. It was historically used in architecture as decorative tiles.
Geological facts
Named for its high sodium content. It was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 but became popular in 1891 when large deposits were found in Ontario, Canada, earning it the nickname 'Princess Blue' after Princess Margaret visited the site.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its deep blue color and characteristic white calcite veins. Unlike Lapis Lazuli, it rarely contains gold-colored pyrite specks. It will often fluoresce orange under ultraviolet light. Found in Canada, Brazil, Greenland, and the USA.
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