Sodalite

The mineral whose chemical formula is Na₈Al₆Si₆O₂₄Cl₂ is known as sodalite.

Sodalite comprises its constituent elements (sodium, aluminium, silicon, oxygen and chlorine) arranged in the cubic system of crystal symmetry. This system of crystal symmetry is the simplest of all crystal symmetries because it takes the form of three axes at mutual right-angles, all the same length as each other.

Sodalite is mined in many locations and usually occurs together with nepheline and cancrinite.

Structures of Sodalite

True crystals of sodalite are rare and are usually rhombdodecahedral.
Sodalite is more commonly found in the form of large granular masses.

As sodalite is usually supplied commercially in its polished form (as tumbled stones, wands, massage "wands" - which are rounded at one end, or formed into shapes such as small statues, or in jewellery), the occurence of sodalite as large granular masses may not be obvious.

Distinguishing features of sodalite

How to tell if a crystal is sodalite as opposed to other similar materials:

All of the following apply to sodalite.

• Blue colour
• Hardness 5.5 to 6
• Distinguished from lazurite (which is very similar to sodalite) by the absence of pyrite.
• Reddish fluorescence in ultra-violet (UV) light.

Associations of Sodalite

Sodalite has many interesting metaphysical associations, including:

• Logical reasoning and clear, rational, thought processes
• Elimination of confusion and unemotional efficiency
• Group-work, fellowship, solidarity and commonality of purpose
• Emotional honesty (primarily with oneself, possibly also extending to others)
• Uses in crystal healing including associations with some specific conditions

Colours of Sodalite

The most common colour of sodalite is blue. Shades vary but tend to be darker rather than lighter shades of blue. Azure-blue is particularly common.

Other less common colours of sodalite include: colourless, green, grey-white, light-red, pink and yellow.

The transparency of sodalite ranges from transparent to translucent but the most common forms of sodalite tend to be translucent, typically shades of blue with white streaks and inclusions.