Hardness: 5.50
Refractive Index: 1.48
Specific Gravity: 2.27
Birthstone:
Astral Stone: Sagittarius
Anniversary Stone:
Origination: Brazil, India, Namibia, Canada and Italy.
Care & Cleaning: Sodalite is somewhat fragile, so handle it with care. To clean, rub lightly with a soft polishing cloth. An optional dab of olive oil will produce a beautiful shine. If necessary, a plain water rinse may also be used. Do not soak.
Fiction, Facts & Folklore:
Sodalite and lazurite are closely related. Together they are key components of lapis.
Although sodalite was first discovered in Greenland in 1806, it did not become popular until 100 years later, when it surfaced in Ontario, Canada. This Canadian deposit ultimately became known as the �Princess mine�. It was named after the Princess of Wales who was said to be enamored with a beautiful blue stone given to her by the Prince. Not surprisingly, sodalite is the international gemstone of Canada.
Fine sodalite can closely resemble lapis lazuli. Lazurite (one of the chief components of lapis) is actually a member of the sodalite mineral group.
Sodalite is most often seen either as a flat cut or en cabochon. Clear sodalite crystals of facet grade are virtually non-existent.
Sodium oxide accounts for nearly 25% of its composition, hence its name.
Sodalite has a relatively low silica content & contains traces of chlorine as well.
In earlier days, sodalite was incorrectly classified as a variety of feldspar.
Brazil & Namibia are two of the most important sources for sodalite in the gem world today.
Inclusions of pyrite sometimes lend a sparkle to sodalite that is quite fascinating.
Some believe that helps relieve high blood pressure. As alternative measure, those suffering from high blood pressure should wear a sodalite chain at heart level.
Sodalite is an ideal gem for someone who lacks self-confidence, for it is supposedly a gem of courage.
For additional information, see "lapis" and "lazurite."