mineral

Tumbled blue stone, likely sodalite

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂; identification is uncertain from the photo

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Dark royal-blue, opaque, glassy to greasy luster, commonly with white veining; Mohs hardness 5.5–6, massive rather than visibly crystalline, with poor cleavage. The glossy surface indicates tumbling and polishing.

Identified August 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor, sodium-rich igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite, generally in alkaline intrusive environments. Geological ages vary widely, commonly Precambrian to Mesozoic.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative and lapidary stone for cabochons, beads, carvings, and tumbled specimens; not generally used structurally.

Geological facts

Sodalite is commonly confused with lapis lazuli, but lapis usually contains golden pyrite flecks and is a rock mixture rather than a single mineral.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia. A uniform deep-blue color, white calcite-like streaks, and lack of metallic gold flecks support sodalite; testing streak, hardness, and composition would confirm it.