mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: Royal blue, grey, or white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 2.27-2.33

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

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: Royal blue, grey, or white; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 2.27-2.33

Formation & geological history

Forms in sodium-rich igneous rocks (syenites and trachytes), often associated with nepheline. It is a tectosilicate mineral commonly found in plutonic environments.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative carvings, tumbled stones, jewelry (beads, cabochons), and as an architectural ornamental stone.

Geological facts

Sodalite is a member of the sodalite group and is often confused with Lapis Lazuli, but it lacks the brassy pyrite inclusions typical of Lapis. It frequently exhibits orange fluorescence under long-wave ultraviolet light.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its rich royal blue color with characteristic white veins of calcite. Common locations include Bancroft (Ontario, Canada), Namibia, Brazil, and Russia. It can be distinguished from Lapis by its lower density and absence of gold-colored pyrite specks.