mineral
Sodalite
Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness 5.5-6 on the Mohs scale, royal blue color often mottled with white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, isometric crystal system.
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Physical properties
Hardness 5.5-6 on the Mohs scale, royal blue color often mottled with white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, isometric crystal system.
Formation & geological history
Forms in sodium-rich igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites from cooling magma chambers.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as an ornamental gemstone, for decorative carvings, and in jewelry.
Geological facts
Sodalite is the primary mineral component of the ornamental rock sodalite syenite, often called lapis lazuli's less expensive lookalike.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its rich royal blue color combined with white calcite inclusions and lack of pyrite flecks unlike lapis lazuli.
