Sodalite and Hematite
Sodalite and Hematite (Beaded Bracelet) · Semi-Precious Gemstones / Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Sodalite: Cubic (massive habit); Hematite: Trigonal/Hexagonal (metallic spheres)
Mineral Group
Sodalite: Silicates (Feldspathoid); Hematite: Oxides
Chemical Formula
Sodalite: Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2; Hematite: Fe2O3
Formation Process
Sodalite forms in silica-poor igneous rocks (nepheline syenites); Hematite forms in hydrothermal veins or sedimentary iron formations
About This Crystal
A beaded bracelet featuring alternating spheres. Sodalite beads are mottled royal blue with white calcite veins and occasional black/grey inclusions. Hematite beads are polished, metallic dark grey with a high mirror-like luster.
Physical Characteristics
Sodalite: Blue with white streak, vitreous to greasy luster, opaque. Hematite: Metallic grey with reddish-brown streak, metallic luster, opaque and heavy (high specific gravity). Sodalite may fluoresce orange/red under LWUV.
Optical Properties
Sodalite: RI 1.48, isotropic (singly refractive). Hematite: Opaque, metallic, no light transmission; shows high metallic reflectivity.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Sodalite: Brazil, Canada (Bancroft), Namibia; Hematite: Brazil, Australia, China
Hardness & Durability
Sodalite: 5.5 to 6 Mohs (moderate); Hematite: 5.5 to 6.5 Mohs. Both are brittle but suitable for jewelry like bracelets if handled with some care.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water; avoid ultrasonic and steam cleaners. Protect Sodalite from acids and Hematite from prolonged water exposure to prevent oxidation or dulling.
Rarity & Value
Common; relatively inexpensive and widely available. Value depends on the depth of blue for sodalite and the quality of polish for hematite.
Special Characteristics
Sodalite often features distinct white calcite veining. Hematite is notable for its high density (feels heavy) and metallic sheen.
Lore & History
Sodalite was discovered in Greenland in 1811 and was popularized after the Princess of Wales visited Canada in 1901. It is traditionally associated with logic and the Throat Chakra. Hematite has been used since ancient Egypt as a pigment and is associated with grounding and the Root Chakra.