mineral
Sodalite
Sodalite (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)
Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: royal blue, grey, or white with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- royal blue, grey, or white with white streaks
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
Identified More mineral →
Explore Sodalite in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: royal blue, grey, or white with white streaks; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Poor/Indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
Formation & geological history
Forms in sodium-rich igneous rocks (syenites, trachytes) and alkaline pegmatites. It is a member of the feldspathoid group, forming where there is insufficient silica to produce feldspars.
Uses & applications
Primarily used as an ornamental gemstone, for decorative carvings, and as a popular tumbled stone for collectors. It is also used in jewelry such as beads and cabochons.
Geological facts
Sodalite is often mistaken for Lapis Lazuli, but unlike Lapis, it rarely contains golden pyrite inclusions. It is known for its strong orange fluorescence under long-wave UV light.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its deep blue color and characteristic white calcite veining. It is commonly found in Brazil, Namibia, Canada (Ontario), and Russia.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Sandstone with Mineral Veining or Crust
Sedimentary Sandstone (mostly SiO2 with Fe2O3 tinting)
sedimentary
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Gypsum (variety Selenite or Alabaster)
Calcium sulfate dihydrate (CaSO4·2H2O)
Mineral
Nephrite Jade
Nephrite
Mineral/Rock