mineral

Tumbled sodalite

Sodalite, Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness 5.5–6 Mohs; deep royal-blue to blue-gray with cloudy white veining, vitreous to greasy luster, and commonly massive rather than visibly crystalline. The rounded, glossy shape indicates tumbling and polishing.

Identified August 20, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in silica-poor, sodium-rich alkaline igneous rocks such as nepheline syenite and related pegmatites, generally during Precambrian to younger geological events. Major sources include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Russia.

Uses & applications

Used as ornamental stone, beads, cabochons, carvings, and decorative tile; attractive material has modest lapidary and collecting value.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often confused with lapis lazuli, but genuine lapis commonly contains golden pyrite flecks. Some sodalite fluoresces orange under long-wave ultraviolet light.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its intense blue color, white calcite-like veining, relatively low hardness, and lack of abundant pyrite. A streak, hardness, UV, or chemical test is needed for confirmation because dyed rocks and other blue minerals can look similar.