mineral
Tumbled sodalite
Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂, commonly intergrown with white calcite
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically deep royal-blue with white calcite veining or patches; vitreous to greasy luster, hardness 5.5–6 Mohs, white streak, poor cleavage, and a massive to granular crystal structure. The specimen is polished/tumbled and has rounded edges.
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Physical properties
Typically deep royal-blue with white calcite veining or patches; vitreous to greasy luster, hardness 5.5–6 Mohs, white streak, poor cleavage, and a massive to granular crystal structure. The specimen is polished/tumbled and has rounded edges.
Formation & geological history
Forms in silica-poor, sodium-rich igneous rocks—especially nepheline syenite and related alkaline complexes—through crystallization from magma. Most gem-quality material comes from Precambrian-age deposits in Canada, Brazil, and Greenland.
Uses & applications
Used as an ornamental stone, cabochons, beads, carvings, and small decorative objects; it is less durable than quartz, so it is unsuitable for heavy-wear rings or industrial aggregate.
Geological facts
Its intense blue color can resemble lapis lazuli, but sodalite usually lacks abundant metallic-gold pyrite. Some sodalite fluoresces orange under long-wave ultraviolet light.
Field identification & locations
Identify it by the blue-and-white pattern, relatively modest hardness, and absence of the strong pyrite sparkle typical of lapis. Common sources include Bancroft, Ontario; Brazil; Namibia; and Greenland.
