mineral

Tumbled sodalite (probable)

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂; possibly blue-gray lapis lazuli or dumortierite

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue to gray-blue, opaque, with pale/white veining and a dull-to-vitreous luster; typically massive rather than visibly crystalline. Mohs hardness is about 5.5–6, with imperfect cleavage and specific gravity near 2.25–2.35.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Sodalite forms in silica-poor, alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite and related pegmatites, generally during ancient Precambrian to younger magmatic events. The rounded shape indicates human tumbling and polishing.

Uses & applications

Used as a decorative stone, beads, cabochons, carvings, and inexpensive jewelry; ornamental sodalite is also used for tiles and tabletops. This small tumbled piece has modest collector value.

Geological facts

Its vivid blue color and white calcite-like patches are characteristic, but a photograph cannot reliably distinguish it from lapis lazuli or dumortierite. It is not expected to show strong crystal faces in a tumbled form.

Field identification & locations

Common sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia; scratch testing, streak, and close examination of veining can help, though laboratory testing may be needed. Sodalite is usually darker and more uniformly blue than many dumortierite pieces, while lapis often contains metallic pyrite flecks.