mineral

Sodalite

Sodalite (Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2)

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark royal blue with white calcite veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33

Hardness: 5
Color: Dark royal blue with white calcite veining
Luster: Vitreous to greasy

Identified February 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Dark royal blue with white calcite veining; Luster: Vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: Isometric; Cleavage: Poor; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33

Formation & geological history

Formed in silica-poor igneous rocks (alkaline igneous environments) such as nepheline syenites and phonolites. It can also occur in contact metamorphic rocks where limestone has been altered by silica-poor fluids.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and architectural tiles. It is also a minor industrial mineral for fluorescent studies and as a historical substitute for Lapis Lazuli.

Geological facts

Sodalite is often nicknamed the 'Poet's Stone' or 'Blue Stone'. Unlike Lapis Lazuli, Sodalite rarely contains golden pyrite inclusions. It is known for its strong orange-yellow fluorescence under UV light.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in Canada (Princess Sodalite Mine), Brazil, and Namibia. In the field, look for a deep blue color with white marbling and a lack of pyrite flecks. It will often fluoresce under a blacklight.