mineral

Tumbled blue stone, likely sodalite

Sodalite (Na₈Al₆Si₆O₂₄Cl₂), possibly blue calcite or dyed quartz

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque to translucent medium-blue with whitish mottling and a polished/tumbled surface; sodalite has vitreous to greasy luster, hardness 5.5–6, cubic crystal structure, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.2–2.4. The photograph alone cannot confirm identity; dyed stones are possible.

Identified September 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Natural sodalite forms in silica-poor, alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite, generally in Precambrian to younger alkaline complexes. Tumbled specimens are mechanically polished from rough fragments.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone, beads, cabochons, carvings, and inexpensive collector material; rarely used industrially.

Geological facts

Sodalite is commonly deep royal blue and may fluoresce orange under long-wave ultraviolet light. Lapis lazuli can look similar but usually contains visible gold-colored pyrite.

Field identification & locations

Check for white calcite veining, uniform blue dye concentration in cracks, hardness, and streak; localities include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia. A gemological test or chemical analysis is needed for certainty.