mineral

Sodalite

Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 on Mohs scale; Color: typically royal blue, gray, and white; Luster: vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: cubic/isometric; Cleavage: poor/indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Hardness: 5
Color: typically royal blue, gray, and white
Luster: vitreous to greasy

Identified May 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 5.5-6.0 on Mohs scale; Color: typically royal blue, gray, and white; Luster: vitreous to greasy; Crystal Structure: cubic/isometric; Cleavage: poor/indistinct; Specific Gravity: 2.27-2.33.

Formation & geological history

Forms in sodium-rich igneous rocks such as nepheline syenites, phonolites, and related rock types. Often found in pegmatite dykes and hydrothermal veins.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in jewelry, ornamental carvings, beads, and as a decorative stone in architecture (slabs, countertops). Also a popular collector's specimen.

Geological facts

Named for its high sodium content. It is known to fluoresce a bright orange-yellow under short-wave UV light. Often mistaken for Lapis Lazuli, but lacks the pyrite inclusions typical of Lapis.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its rich blue color with frequent white streaks (Calcite). Found in Bancroft (Ontario), Brazil, Greenland, and Namibia. In the field, look for association with alkali-rich igneous rocks and use a UV light to confirm fluorescence.