Sodalite
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Sodalite is a rich royal blue tectosilicate mineral that is widely used as an ornamental gemstone. Although massive samples of sodalite are typically opaque, crystals can be transparent to translucent. It belongs to the sodalite group, which also includes hauyne, nosean, lazurite, and tugtupite.
First discovered by Europeans in 1811 in the Ilimaussaq intrusive complex in Greenland, sodalite became popular as an ornamental stone in 1891 after vast deposits of fine-quality material were discovered in Ontario, Canada.
Structure of Sodalite
Sodalite is a cubic mineral composed of an aluminosilicate cage framework containing Na+ cations within its structure. This framework forms a cage-like pattern, similar to zeolites. Each unit cell of sodalite contains two of these cage structures.
In its natural form, sodalite primarily contains chloride anions within its cages. However, these can be substituted by other anions, such as sulfate, sulfide, hydroxide, and trisulfur. Other minerals in the sodalite group represent end-member compositions of these anion variations.
Properties of Sodalite
Sodalite is a tectosilicate mineral that falls under the category of tectosilicates without zeolitic H2O. Its chemical formula is Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2. Sodalite has a cubic crystal system and belongs to the hextetrahedral crystal class (43m), with a Hermann-Mauguin symbol of (4 3m). The space group is P43n, and the unit cell dimension is a = 8.876(6) Å, with Z = 1.
The mineral is characterized by its rich royal blue color, but it can also be found in green, yellow, violet, and commonly with white veining. It generally forms in massive habits and rarely as dodecahedra. Twinning is common on {111}, forming pseudohexagonal prisms. Sodalite has poor cleavage on {110}, with a conchoidal to uneven fracture, and is considered brittle. The Mohs hardness ranges from 5.5 to 6, and it has a dull vitreous to greasy luster. Its streak is white, and it ranges from transparent to translucent in diaphaneity. The specific gravity is between 2.27 and 2.33.
Sodalite exhibits isotropic optical properties, with a refractive index of n = 1.483 – 1.487. Under ultraviolet light, it displays bright red-orange cathodoluminescence and fluorescence under both longwave and shortwave UV, with yellowish phosphorescence. It may also be photochromic, displaying magenta colors. The stone is easily fusible to a colorless glass and produces a sodium yellow flame when heated. It is soluble in hydrochloric acid and nitric acid.
The more uniformly blue material is used in jewelry, where it is typically cut into cabochons or beads. Lesser-quality material is more commonly used for inlays and decorative facing in various applications.
Sodalite vs. Lapis Lazuli
Sodalite is often compared to lapis lazuli due to their similar blue colors. However, sodalite generally lacks pyrite inclusions, which are common in lapis lazuli, and its blue color is more akin to a traditional royal blue, whereas lapis lazuli often has a deeper ultramarine hue. Sodalite can be further distinguished from lapis lazuli by its streak color—sodalite has a white streak, whereas lapis has a light blue streak. Additionally, sodalite’s six directions of poor cleavage can often be seen as small incipient cracks throughout the stone.
Sodalite is rarely found in crystal form, and it can sometimes be found intergrown with white calcite. Due to its similarity to lapis lazuli and lower price, sodalite is sometimes referred to as “poor man’s lapis.” Many specimens of sodalite fluoresce orange under ultraviolet light, and the related mineral hackmanite exhibits tenebrescence, which is the ability to change color when exposed to UV radiation.
Sodalite Meaning and Healing Properties
The following section is based on pseudoscientific and cultural beliefs.
Sodalite is believed to promote rational thought, objectivity, truth, and intuition, along with the ability to verbalize one’s feelings. It is said to bring emotional balance and calm panic attacks. Additionally, sodalite is thought to enhance self-esteem, self-acceptance, and self-trust. It is also believed to help balance metabolism, boost the immune system, and aid in overcoming calcium deficiencies.
The stone is thought to have a strong vibration that is particularly useful for developing psychic abilities and enhancing intuition.
Sodalite and the Throat Chakra
Like many blue gemstones, sodalite is considered an excellent stone for communication. It is believed to have a strong effect on the throat chakra, aiding in the clear expression of one’s thoughts and emotions.
FAQ
Where should I put sodalite stone in my home?
Sodalite can be placed near the brow and throat to experience its purported benefits. It can also be used in a body grid by placing it on the throat and brow areas while lying on your back.
What chakra is associated with sodalite?
Sodalite is often connected to the third eye chakra, which is believed to strengthen intuitive abilities and inner knowing. By clearing and activating this energy center, it is said that sodalite helps users access their inner wisdom.
Does all sodalite glow under UV light?
Most sodalite specimens will fluoresce orange under ultraviolet light, while the related mineral hackmanite exhibits tenebrescence, meaning it can change color when exposed to UV light.
How can you tell if sodalite is real?
Genuine sodalite will often have a lot of gray, especially in its raw form. If you perform a streak test, real sodalite will leave a white streak, whereas lapis lazuli will leave a light blue streak. Additionally, an unusually cheap price can indicate that the stone is fake.
What does a sodalite crystal look like?
Sodalite is typically blue to blue-violet in color and is often found alongside nepheline and other feldspathoid minerals. It is usually translucent, with a vitreous luster, and has a Mohs hardness of 5.5 to 6. The crystal often features white veining and can sometimes be confused with lapis lazuli.
How much is sodalite worth?
Sodalite is relatively abundant, and its value is typically low—usually under $10 per carat. Its affordability makes it an accessible stone for collectors and those interested in using it for its metaphysical properties.
Natural Sodalite for Sale in Our Gem Shop
We offer custom-made sodalite jewelry, including engagement rings, necklaces, stud earrings, bracelets, and pendants. Please contact us for a quote.
