mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or green; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic (Isometric); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or green
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue, grey, white, or green; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic (Isometric); Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous rocks that crystallized from sodium-rich magmas (alkaline rocks like syenites and trachytes). Often associated with nepheline and other feldspathoid minerals.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as an ornamental stone, for tumbled stones, beads in jewelry, and larger decorative carvings or architectural slabs.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often mistaken for Lapis Lazuli, but unlike Lapis, it rarely contains gold-colored pyrite specks and usually has more prominent white calcite veining. It is known for its intense blue color and is sometimes called 'Princess Blue' in Canada.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its deep blue color, lack of pyrite, and presence of white streaks. Major deposits are found in Bancroft, Ontario (Canada), Brazil, Namibia, and Russia. It often fluoresces bright orange under long-wave UV light.