mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5-6 on Mohs scale; Color: typically royal blue, often with white streaks of calcite; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Poor; Specific gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Hardness: 5
Color: typically royal blue, often with white streaks of calcite
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified May 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in igneous rocks that crystallized from sodium-rich magmas (nepheline syenites and phonolites). It is a member of the sodalite group and is an unsaturated feldspathoid mineral.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as an ornamental gemstone, for carving figurines, as architectural facing stone, and in jewelry (beads and cabochons). It is also popular among crystal collectors.

Geological facts

Sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1811 but became famous as 'Princess Blue' after Princess Margaret of England visited the Princess Sodalite Mine in Ontario, Canada, in 1901.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its intense blue color and white veins (calcite). Unlike lapis lazuli, it rarely contains golden pyrite inclusions and is less dense. Found in Canada, Brazil, Namibia, and Greenland.