mineral

Tumbled sodalite

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically deep blue to violet-blue with white calcite veining and occasional yellowish alteration; vitreous to greasy luster, massive grainy texture, Mohs hardness 5.5–6, and poor cleavage. The rounded shape indicates a polished/tumbled specimen.

Identified August 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor, sodium-rich igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites and related pegmatites, generally in alkaline continental settings. Important deposits occur in Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia.

Uses & applications

Used as an ornamental stone for beads, cabochons, carvings, countertops, and decorative objects; its rich blue color makes it a popular low-cost gemstone and lapidary material.

Geological facts

Sodalite is commonly confused with lapis lazuli, but lapis usually contains visible golden pyrite and is a rock mixture rather than a single mineral. Yellow areas may be natrolite or weathered mineral inclusions.

Field identification & locations

Identify it by its royal-blue body color, white calcite streaks, moderate hardness, and lack of metallic pyrite sparkle; a streak or acid test is best performed only on an inconspicuous area. The image alone cannot exclude similar blue stones such as dyed calcite or dumortierite.