
mineral
Sodalite
Na8Al6Si6O24(Cl,OH)2
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, royal blue color often mottled with white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, isometric crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity of 2.15 to 2.40.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, royal blue color often mottled with white calcite veins, vitreous to greasy luster, isometric crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity of 2.15 to 2.40.
Formation & geological history
Forms in igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and trachytes from sodium-rich, silica-poor magma.
Uses & applications
Used primarily as an ornamental stone, for carved items like this heart, in decorative jewelry, and occasionally as a gemstone.
Geological facts
Sodalite is the main component of the ornamental rock known as lapis lazuli, and some varieties of sodalite will fluoresce orange-pink under ultraviolet light.
Field identification & locations
Can be identified in the field by its distinct rich royal blue color combined with white calcite veining and a lack of the brassy pyrite flecks typically found in lapis lazuli. Common localities include Canada, Greenland, India, and the United States.