mineral
Tumbled blue stone, likely sodalite
Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂; identification from appearance is uncertain
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectOpaque medium-blue color with pale veining and a polished, vitreous-to-waxy luster; sodalite has Mohs hardness 5.5–6 and a cubic crystal structure. The image does not show enough detail to confirm mineral identity or cleavage.
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Physical properties
Opaque medium-blue color with pale veining and a polished, vitreous-to-waxy luster; sodalite has Mohs hardness 5.5–6 and a cubic crystal structure. The image does not show enough detail to confirm mineral identity or cleavage.
Formation & geological history
Sodalite forms in silica-poor, sodium-rich igneous rocks, especially nepheline syenites, during crystallization; deposits range from ancient to geologically recent.
Uses & applications
Used as ornamental stone, beads, carvings, and tumbled collectibles; larger pieces may be used decoratively.
Geological facts
Blue sodalite is often confused with lapis lazuli, but typically lacks lapis’s abundant golden pyrite flecks.
Field identification & locations
Common sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia. Field identification requires testing hardness and examining mineral associations; this polished specimen cannot be reliably distinguished from other blue stones by photo alone.
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