mineral

Sodalite

Sodium Aluminum Silicate Chloride (Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2)

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue to navy blue with white/grey veins; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.4

Hardness: 5
Color: Royal blue to navy blue with white/grey veins
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6 (Mohs scale); Color: Royal blue to navy blue with white/grey veins; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.2-2.4

Formation & geological history

Formed in igneous rocks that crystallized from sodium-rich magmas, such as nepheline syenites. It often occurs in hydrothermal veins and sometimes in contact metamorphic rocks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for ornamental carvings, jewelry (cabochons and beads), and as an architectural stone for countertops or tiles. It is also a popular specimen for crystal collectors.

Geological facts

Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 but became extremely popular after large deposits were found in Ontario, Canada, during a royal visit by Princess Margaret, leading to its nickname 'Princess Blue'. Unlike Lapis Lazuli, it lacks pyrite (gold flecks) and often has more white calcitic veining.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its deep blue color and characteristic white streaks of calcite. It is commonly found in Brazil, Namibia, Canada (Ontario), and the USA (Arkansas). Under a UV lamp, some specimens exhibit a strong orange fluorescence.

Other mineral specimens

See all

Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)

Arenite (SiO2 based)

sedimentary

Epidote

Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)

metamorphic

Nephrite Jade

Nephrite

Mineral/Rock

Banded Gneiss (River Rock/Pebble)

Gneiss (specifically a banded variety often found as a river rock)

Metamorphic Rock

Green Apatite on Albite

Fluorapatite [Ca5(PO4)3F] on Albite [Na(AlSi3O8)]

mineral

Epidote

Epidote - Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)3(SiO4)3(OH)

mineral