Minerals · common
Sodalite
Sodalite is a rich royal blue mineral often with white calcite veining. It's sometimes confused with lapis lazuli but lacks the golden pyrite flecks.
Also known as: blue stone, sodium mineral, lapis alternative.
Sodalite properties at a glance
| Type | Minerals |
|---|---|
| Chemical formula | Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2 |
| Mohs hardness | 5.5 |
| Crystal system | cubic |
| Luster | vitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Cleavage | Poor |
| Fracture | Conchoidal |
| Specific gravity | 2.3 |
| Transparency | translucent |
| Common colors | Blue, Blue with white veins, Gray-Blue |
| Rarity | common |
Geology & background
Forms in nepheline syenite igneous rocks and associated pegmatites poor in silica.
Although known since ancient times, sodalite only became commercially popular after deposits were found in Canada in 1891.
How to identify Sodalite
- Check whether the specimen's color and texture match typical Sodalite examples.
- Photograph a fresh surface in natural light and avoid shadows, glare, or wet surfaces.
- Use hardness, streak, luster, grain size, and locality together; no single trait is enough for every specimen.
Full Sodalite identification guide: checklist, home tests and look-alikes →
Sodalite vs similar stones
Not sure it isn't something else? Side-by-side comparisons with the stones most often confused with Sodalite.
Where Sodalite is found
Sodalite is reported from multiple localities or geological settings. Exact locality should be verified from specimen provenance, maps, or field notes.
How much is Sodalite worth?
| Entry-level specimen | $5 |
|---|---|
| Typical collector specimen | $20 |
| Premium specimen | $100+ |
Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
Common uses
- Jewelry
- Decorative objects
- Carvings
Interesting facts
- Named for its sodium content
- Some specimens fluoresce orange under UV light
- Often called 'poor man's lapis lazuli'
Care & safety
Treat Sodalite as a collector specimen unless hardness, cleavage, and fracture are confirmed.
Avoid inhaling dust. Do not cut, grind, or polish unknown specimens without eye protection and a properly rated respirator.
Sodalite FAQ
What is Sodalite?
Sodalite is a rich royal blue mineral often with white calcite veining. It's sometimes confused with lapis lazuli but lacks the golden pyrite flecks.
How much is Sodalite worth?
Entry-level Sodalite specimens sell for around $5, a typical collector specimen for about $20, and premium pieces for $100 or more. Value depends on size, condition, color, crystal quality, locality, rarity, preparation, and provenance. Treat this as educational guidance, not an appraisal.
How hard is Sodalite?
Sodalite has a Mohs hardness of 5.5. It is about as hard as window glass: a knife barely marks it, while a steel file (Mohs 6.5) will.
Where is Sodalite found?
Notable sources of Sodalite include Canada, Brazil, Namibia, Russia, and USA. Forms in nepheline syenite igneous rocks and associated pegmatites poor in silica..
What is Sodalite used for?
Sodalite is used for jewelry, decorative objects, and carvings.
