By Chisom Ibemere
Sodalite is a tectosilicate mineral with royal blue varieties widely used as an ornamental gemstone. It has a rich history dating back thousands of years. It originated in Greenland in the early 19th century, but gained popularity in the 1890s when large deposits were found in Ontario, Canada. The name “sodalite” is derived from the high sodium content found in this gemstone.
Sodalite is found in various locations around the world mostly in Canada,Brazil, Namibia, Russia, and the United States. It is primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry. Its striking blue color, often with white streaks or patches, makes it an attractive choice for pendants, rings, and other accessories.
Sodalite is also used as a decorative stone in carvings, beads, and figurines. Additionally, it has some industrial applications, such as in the manufacturing of ceramics and glass.
Sodalite is composed of sodium, aluminum, silicon, and chlorine. It has a hardness of 5.5 to 6 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable. Sodalite is known for its deep blue color, but it can also occur in shades of violet, gray, and green. It has a vitreous to greasy luster and is often translucent.
Sodalite is highly valued mostly for its color and the presence of white veins or streaks, known as “veining.” These patterns add to its overall beauty and uniqueness. Sodalite is also known for its metaphysical properties and is believed to promote intuition, communication, and emotional balance.
The value of sodalite can vary depending on several factors, including color, clarity, size, and cut. High-quality sodalite with intense blue color and well-defined veining commands a higher price in the market. Sodalite’s global value is influenced by the demand for blue gemstones and the popularity of its distinct appearance in the jewelry industry.