mineral
Sodalite
Sodalite (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: typically royal blue, often with white calcite veining; Luster: vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
- Hardness
- 5
- Color
- typically royal blue, often with white calcite veining
- 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: typically royal blue, often with white calcite veining; Luster: vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.
Formation & geological history
Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite and phonolite, often associated with pegmatites and metasomatic environments.
Uses & applications
Primarily used for decorative carvings, cabochons for jewelry, as a minor ore of sodium, and as a popular specimen for mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Sodalite is often confused with Lapis Lazuli, but lacks the golden pyrite inclusions common in Lapis. It can exhibit a property called tenebrescence where it changes color under UV light (specifically the Hackmanite variety).
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its rich blue color and association with white calcite and other feldspathoid minerals. Found in major deposits in Canada (Bancroft), Namibia, and Brazil.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary