Sodalite
Sodalite (IMA approved name) · Semi-Precious Gemstone / Decorative Stone.
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); crystals are rare, typically dodecahedral. In this specimen, it is carved into a character shape from a massive mineral form.
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate), Sodalite group member.
Chemical Formula
Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2, often with minor substitutions of potassium or calcium.
Formation Process
Igneous formation; crystallizes from alkali-rich, silica-poor magmas. It can also occur in hydrothermal environments as a secondary mineral.
About This Crystal
Deep royal blue to navy color with an opaque to translucent appearance. The surface shows a waxy to vitreous luster for this polished carving. Features characteristic white or grey inclusions likely of calcite or feldspar, which are common in massive sodalite.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Blue (rich navy); Streak: White; Cleavage: Poor; Fracture: Conchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 2.27–2.33; Tenacity: Brittle; Fluorescence: Often exhibits strong orange to red fluorescence under longwave UV (365nm).
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.483–1.487 (Isotropic); Pleochroism: None; Luster: Vitreous to waxy on polished surfaces. It is singly refractive.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Major sources include Brazil, Canada (Ontario), Namibia, and the United States (Maine). It forms typically in silica-undersaturated igneous rocks like nepheline syenites and phonolites.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 5.5 to 6. Toughness is poor to fair. It is relatively soft compared to quartz and can be scratched by steel; suitable for decorative items but requires care in jewelry.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Sensitive to acids and strong chemicals. Store separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratching.
Rarity & Value
Common. Value factors include color intensity and lack of excessive white Calcite patterning. Price is generally low and affordable for specimens and carvings. Dying is sometimes used to enhance color, but most blue material is natural.
Special Characteristics
Often confused with Lapis Lazuli, but distinguished by the lack of brassy Pyrite inclusions and its orange UV fluorescence. The specific carving here is a 'Hello Kitty' character figure.
Lore & History
Discovered in Greenland in 1811 and named for its high sodium content. It gained popularity as a decorative stone in the early 20th century. In metaphysical lore, it is known as the 'Poet's Stone' or 'Stone of Logic,' associated with the Throat and Third Eye chakras for communication and intuition.