Sodalite is a tectosilicate mineral with the formula Na ₈Cl ₂, with
royal blue varieties widely used as an ornamental gemstone. Although
massive sodalite samples are opaque, crystals are usually transparent to
translucent. Sodalite is a member of the sodalite group with hauyne,
nosean, lazurite and tugtupite.
Colors: Blue, Purple
Luster: Greasy, Waxy
Hardness (Mohs hardness scale): 5.5 – 6
Chemical formula: Na₈Al₆Si₆O₂₄ Cl₂
Category: Tectosilicate minerals, feldspathoid group, sodalite group.
Science & Origin of Sodalite
Sodalite is a group of minerals also known as the feldspathoid group. It
was first discovered in 1811 by Europeans in Greenland. However, it's
been traced back to the Caral People (2600-2000 B.C.) near Lima for
trading purposes. It is rarely seen in crystal form and can sometimes be
found intertwined with White Calcite. Sodalite is primarily blue but can
be found as white, yellow, red, and green. Members of this mineral group
include Lazurite, Haüyne, and Nosean.