mineral

Tumbled blue stone, likely sodalite

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂; possibly blue calcite or dyed material

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Deep royal-blue, mottled with white-gray patches and a dull-to-waxy polish; sodalite has Mohs hardness 5.5–6, vitreous luster, cubic crystal structure, and poor cleavage. The rounded shape indicates tumbling and obscures natural crystal form.

Identified August 11, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Sodalite forms in silica-poor, sodium-rich alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite, generally during Precambrian to younger intrusive events. Major sources include Canada, Brazil, Russia, and Namibia.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, beads, cabochons, carvings, and inexpensive collector material; it has little industrial value.

Geological facts

Sodalite is commonly confused with lapis lazuli, but genuine sodalite usually lacks abundant metallic-gold pyrite. Strongly uniform or unusually vivid blue color may indicate dyeing or a different stone.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its blue-and-white mottling, moderate hardness, and lack of pyrite; a streak, acid, and hardness test can help distinguish calcite or dyed stone, though testing may damage it. Common tumbled specimens are widely sold in metaphysical and lapidary shops.