It’s easy to see why Sodalite is known as the gemstone of cosmic beauty. With a waxy luster and array of intricate colors, this mysterious stone deserves more appreciation. Its meaning for those who struggle with anxiety and emotional distress isn’t to be discounted either.
Too often, a gemstone is judged solely based on its market value. But the benefits of Sodalite extend beyond its price per carat. This unique gemstone may not have been as well known as November’s birthstones, but it’s valuable in its own right. Get ready to learn about the refined properties and unique history of Sodalite.
| Sodalite Color | Deep Blue, Purple, White, Yellow, Colorless |
| Zodiac Signs | Virgo and Saggitarius |
| Hardness Scale | 5.5 to 6 on Mohs Scale |
| Mineral Class | Feldspathoids |
| Symbolism | Ethereal Beauty, Wisdom, Clarity, Intuition |
What is Sodalite?
Sodalite is a lightweight gemstone that is relatively rare. It’s formed amongst igneous rocks amongst magma that’s rich in sodium. The unique hue and formation make it an exceptional but not as widely-loved stone.
Though Sodalite has a mystical quality to it, it’s tricky to work with. It’s lightweight and easily damaged, with a Mohs hardness rating of 5.5 to 6. Though not nearly as fragile as some jewelry birthstones, Sodalite necklaces and bracelets must be treated with care. Still, Sodalite is not to be discounted, especially for its unique meaning and beautiful appearance.
The perplexing issue with identifying Sodalite is that it’s sometimes mistaken with Lapis Lazuli. Though both are primarily blue stones, Lapis Lazuli is a consistently brighter blue. There’s also the value to consider. Even the highest-quality of Sodalite fetches a fraction of what Lapis Lazuli does, with an average price of $10 per carat.
What does Sodalite look like?
Sodalite colors are not uniform. This stone is replete with vein-like patterns or generous white patches. The highest-quality royal blue Sodalite stones are polished and fashioned into pendants and beads. Sodalite has a naturally waxy, subtle luster.
Sodalite is classified into different types based on its colors. While Sodalite is most known for its vivid blue color, this is far from its only color. Sodalite also has light pink tones, gray, yellow, green, and can even be colorless.
Grading is dependent upon the saturation of the color, the variety of Sodalite, and the luster and clarity. The two main types of Sodalite can be seen in the chart below, along with their associated properties.
| Type of Sodalite | Main Colors | Main Properties |
|---|---|---|
| Hackmanite | Pink, Violet | Relatively fragile, not commonly used for jewelry |
| Crystal Sodalite | Royal Blue, Undertones of Yellow, White | More commonly cut into cabochons for polished stones or jewelry. |
As such, both the most valuable and desirable Sodalite is royal blue with few inclusions, cut into polished stones.
History of Sodalite
Sodalite may not be as well known as the valuable Ruby gemstone, but its history is likewise long and rich. Gemologists and historians believe that Sodalite was traded amongst the Caral society as far back as 2,500 BC in what is now modern-day Peru. The Tiwanaku also used Sodalite in what is now Bolivia.
However, Sodalite was officially discovered in 1806 by Thomas Thomson. The British mineralogist was in Greenland when he came across the royal blue gemstone. It was also recognized by other Europeans around 1811. However, it took some time for thai gemstone to garner much attention.
Nearly a century later, in the late 1890s, gemologists stumbled upon mines in Canada. The rich concentration of Sodalite not only made it more popular, but it also earned its nickname. Today, Sodalite is known as the Canadian Blue Stone and is used for beaded jewelry and as an ornament in Feng Shui practices.
The meanings of Sodalite
Perhaps one of the most interesting properties of Sodalite is its many meanings and associated benefits. Sodalite is a stone of balance. Many seek Sodalite to bring forth stability, inner clarity, and calm. The symbolism of wisdom extends beyond intelligence. Sodalite is a gemstone that’s prized for its connection to beauty, creativity, and introspection.
Because of this, many used Sodalite for healing. Sodalite is worn as an amulet or bracelet to reduce anxiety levels. Some see it as a gemstone that serves as a warning. That warning isn’t one fueled by fear, but awareness. Users of Sodalite claim that it helps them reconnect with themselves.
In a world of deadlines and demands, Sodalite, not unlike the Opal gemstone, helps users to see truth and wisdom—but within themselves.
Where does Sodalite come from?
Sodalite must be cut and polished due to how it’s formed. It’s found within the veins of extrusive igneous rocks. Vein-like formations give way to a constellation of minerals. Leucite, Natrolute, and Cancrinite are the most common minerals found in Sodalite. However, a bevy of other minerals accounts for the different types and colors of Sodalite.
Sodalite is most abundant in mines from Ontario and Quebec. It’s also sourced from Maine, Arkansas, and in trace locations across South America, Russia, Romania, and Burma. The pink variety of Sodalite is located in Greenland.
Despite all of these sourcing locations, Sodalite is not a common or abundant stone. It’s considered rare, even within its gemstone family.
What zodiac sign is associated with Sodalite?
Two zodiac signs are associated with Sodalite: Virgo and Saggitarius. Both of these zodiac signs collectively reflect the meaning of Sodalite.
For instance, the Virgo sign is known to exhibit humility, industry, kindness, and grounded nature. Likewise, Sodalite is connected with being kind to oneself and emotionally balanced.
The Sagittarius sign is known for its wisdom and loyalty. This is further enhanced by the inner clarity and wisdom that Sodalite is said to provide.
What family is Sodalite from?
Sodalite comes from the feldspathoids family. Feldspathoids are a fairly rare group of minerals that are distinguished by their high concentration of sodium, potassium, and calcium. Feldspathoids are also noteworthy for lower levels of silica and a defined pyramid structure.
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Frequently asked questions about Sodalite
Sodalite ushers in calm and healing energy. This gemstone has been used by many to bring emotional balance. Sodalite brings clarity, peace of mind, and intuition. It’s associated with the Third Eye Chakra, which is also purported to bring healing to vocal cords and impacted metabolic functions.
Sodalite provides both calming and healing energy. The tranquility provides balance and calm in one’s life. For this reason, Sodalite is said to open the mind to a healthier and more open perspective.
Sodalite is associated with the Virgo and Sagittarius zodiac signs. Sagittarius, the ninth sign of the zodiac, is known for being loyal, intelligent, and wise. The Virgo sign is known for being balanced, pragmatic, and kind. Both of these signs exemplify the wise and calming nature of Sodalite.
For many, Sodalite is a stone of renewal. While Sodalite provides calming energy, it symbolizes a need for change. This change comes not from fear, but intuition, reflection, and inner wisdom. Sodalite symbolizes a deeper connection with oneself and harmony.
