Magnetite with Sodalite (Tumbled)
Magnetite and Sodalite (Silicate/Oxide mixture) · Mineral Specimen / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Cubic (Magnetite: octahedrons; Sodalite: dodecahedral or massive). This specimen is a tumbled/massive aggregate.
Mineral Group
Oxides (Magnetite) and Tectosilicates / Feldspathoids (Sodalite)
Chemical Formula
Fe2+Fe3+2O4 (Magnetite) and Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2 (Sodalite)
Formation Process
Metamorphic or Igneous; typically found in alkaline igneous rocks (syenites) or contact metamorphic zones.
About This Crystal
A polished dark blue and black tumbled stone. The blue areas are sodalite with a dull to vitreous luster, while the black sections are metallic to sub-metallic magnetite.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Indigo blue and black; Streak: Black or White depending on area; Luster: Vitreous to Metallic; Specific Gravity: 2.3 (Sodalite) to 5.2 (Magnetite); Strongly Magnetic.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.48 (Sodalite) and Opaque (Magnetite); Non-pleochroic; Singly Refractive; Sodalite may show bright orange fluorescence under UV.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Brazil, Canada, and Russia are primary sources of this blue and black magnetic mixture.
Hardness & Durability
Sodalite: 5.5-6.0; Magnetite: 5.5-6.5 on Mohs scale. Good durability but susceptible to scratches from harder minerals like Quartz.
Care & Maintenance
Avoid acidic cleaners which can etch Sodalite. Clean with warm soapy water. Keep separate from magnets or electronics to avoid affecting its magnetic field.
Rarity & Value
Common to Uncommon. Inexpensive as tumbled stones; value depends on the intensity of the blue and the strength of magnetism.
Special Characteristics
Ferromagnetic (attracts magnets) and frequently exhibits bright orange-red fluorescence under long-wave ultraviolet light in the blue sodalite regions.
Lore & History
Magnetite (Lodestone) was used for ancient navigation. Sodalite is traditionally associated with logic and the throat chakra. Combined, they are believed by practitioners to ground spiritual ideas into reality.
Notes
Its magnetic