mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Royal blue, mottled with white veins; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic (dodecahedral); Streak: White.

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue, mottled with white veins
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified July 13, 2026More mineral →

Explore Sodalite in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs); Color: Royal blue, mottled with white veins; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Cubic (dodecahedral); Streak: White.

Formation & geological history

Forms in sodium-rich igneous rocks (syenites, trachytes) and pegmatites. It is a member of the feldspathoid group, forming in silica-poor environments.

Uses & applications

Used primarily for ornamental purposes, jewelry (cabochons, beads), interior decoration (slabs, carvings), and as a collector specimen.

Geological facts

Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 and became popular when a large deposit was found in Ontario, Canada, during a royal visit by Princess Margaret.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its rich royal blue color and characteristic white streaks of calcite. Unlike Lapis Lazuli, Sodalite rarely contains gold-colored pyrite specks. Found in Canada, Brazil, and Namibia.