mineral
Tumbled sodalite
Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically royal to denim blue with white calcite veining; vitreous to greasy luster and massive rather than visibly crystalline. Mohs hardness 5.5–6; cubic crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity about 2.2–2.4.
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Physical properties
Typically royal to denim blue with white calcite veining; vitreous to greasy luster and massive rather than visibly crystalline. Mohs hardness 5.5–6; cubic crystal system, poor cleavage, specific gravity about 2.2–2.4.
Formation & geological history
A feldspathoid mineral formed in silica-poor, sodium-rich igneous rocks, especially nepheline syenite; most deposits are Precambrian, though sodalite occurs in younger intrusions too.
Uses & applications
Used as a decorative stone, beads, carvings, and inexpensive jewelry; also collected as a mineral specimen.
Geological facts
Sodalite is named for its sodium content and is often confused with lapis lazuli, but it generally lacks lapis’s gold-colored pyrite flecks.
Field identification & locations
The vivid blue color with irregular white calcite patches is characteristic; notable sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia. The polished, rounded surface indicates a tumbled specimen.
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Epidote
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Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
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