mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite: Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Royal blue to grey-blue with white calcite inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue to grey-blue with white calcite inclusions
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Royal blue to grey-blue with white calcite inclusions; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and phonolites, as well as in contact metamorphic rocks. Commonly associated with pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in jewelry (beads, cabochons), ornamental carvings (spheres, pyramids), and as a landscape/architectural stone.

Geological facts

Named for its high sodium content. It is a main component of the rock Lapis Lazuli, but unlike Lapis, Sodalite rarely contains pyrite flecks and usually features white calcite veining.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its deep blue color and white streaks; it is often fluorescent (orange) under UV light. Found in Canada (Bancroft), Namibia, Brazil, and Greenland.