mineral
Tumbled blue sodalite beads
Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂, likely with white albite or calcite veining
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMohs hardness 5.5–6; deep royal-blue to gray-blue with white mottling, vitreous to greasy luster, usually massive and granular rather than visibly crystalline. The rounded, glossy surfaces indicate tumbling and polishing; one bead appears strongly weathered or differently composed.
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Physical properties
Mohs hardness 5.5–6; deep royal-blue to gray-blue with white mottling, vitreous to greasy luster, usually massive and granular rather than visibly crystalline. The rounded, glossy surfaces indicate tumbling and polishing; one bead appears strongly weathered or differently composed.
Formation & geological history
Sodalite forms mainly in silica-poor, alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite and related pegmatites, generally during Precambrian to younger alkaline magmatic events. Common sources include Brazil, Canada, Namibia, and Russia.
Uses & applications
Used for beads, cabochons, carvings, ornamental objects, and decorative stone; it is less suitable for high-wear jewelry than quartz because of its moderate hardness.
Geological facts
Its blue color comes largely from sulfur-related defects in the aluminosilicate structure. It is commonly confused with lapis lazuli, but lapis usually contains visible brassy pyrite and is a rock mixture rather than mostly sodalite.
Field identification & locations
Identify by opaque blue color, white veining, moderate hardness, and lack of pyrite; sodalite generally does not fizz in dilute acid. These are polished craft beads rather than display-grade crystal specimens.
