Sodalite
About
Sodalite is a deep blue to blue-violet mineral with white streaks or patches, often caused by calcite inclusions. It is often confused with lapis lazuli but lacks the golden flecks of pyrite. Major sources include Canada, Brazil, Russia, and Namibia.
Birthstones & Anniversaries
Sodalite is not a traditional birthstone but is associated with the zodiac sign Sagittarius, symbolising wisdom, truth, and emotional balance.
Crystal Healing Energy
The overarching theme of sodalite is clarity and focus. It is believed to enhance logical thinking, intuition, and self-expression while calming an overactive mind. Often used for meditation, sodalite is thought to align the mind with the heart, encouraging balanced decisions and fostering inner peace. It’s also considered a grounding stone, helping to reduce stress and promote emotional stability.
Facts
Fluorescence: Some sodalite specimens fluoresce under UV light, glowing an orange or pinkish-red colour.
Rare Varieties: Hackmanite, a variety of sodalite, exhibits tenebrescence, meaning it changes colour when exposed to UV light or heat.
Major Sources: Significant deposits of sodalite are found in Canada, Brazil, and Namibia, with Canada being one of the largest producers.
Ornamental Use: Sodalite is popular for carvings, beads, and decorative items due to its unique appearance and affordability.
Low Maintenance: Sodalite’s colour is relatively stable and resistant to fading, making it a practical choice for jewellery and display.
Science
Mineral: Sodalite
Crystal System: Cubic
Chemistry: Na₈(AlSiO₄)₆Cl₂
Colour: Deep blue, blue-violet, with white streaks or patches
Refractive Index: 1.483 to 1.487
Specific Gravity: 2.27 to 2.33
Mohs Hardness: 5.5 to 6
TreatmentsSodalite is generally untreated, though it’s possible lower-quality stones may be dyed to enhance their blue colour or to mimic higher-quality materials like lapis lazuli.
SyntheticsSynthetic sodalite is uncommon due to the mineral's abundance and affordability.
ImitationsDyed howlite is used to mimic turquoise but may also occasionally be used to imitate sodalite, particularly in its characteristic deep blue hues.
similar materialsLapis Lazuli: Similar in colour but distinguished by golden pyrite flecks and a slightly higher hardness.
Azurite: Another deep blue mineral that can resemble sodalite but is softer and lacks white calcite inclusions.
Dumortierite: A blue mineral that can be mistaken for sodalite but is typically harder and has a fibrous texture.