mineral

Tumbled sodalite (probable)

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Blue to violet-blue, commonly mottled with white or gray; vitreous to greasy luster, hardness 5.5–6 Mohs, granular cubic crystal system, poor cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.25–2.35. The rounded surface indicates machine tumbling and polishing.

Identified August 9, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor, alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite and related pegmatites, commonly during Precambrian to Phanerozoic alkaline magmatism. The identification is approximate from the photograph; lazurite or dyed blue stone are possible alternatives.

Uses & applications

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

Geological facts

Sodalite is a major component of some lapis lazuli, although lapis typically also contains pyrite and calcite. It can fluoresce orange under shortwave ultraviolet light.

Field identification & locations

Check for a rich blue color, white veining, moderate hardness, and a nonmetallic luster; a streak test and hardness comparison help distinguish it from dyed stones and lapis. Common sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia.