Sodalite
Sodalite is a silicate mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with known Chinese sources.
About Sodalite
Sodalite is classified as a silicate mineral in the sodalite group and has the chemical formula Na8(Al6Si6O24)Cl2. It crystallizes in the isometric system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Specimens usually show dodecahedral crystals (rare); usually massive, granular; veins; disseminated grains in igneous rocks. Its color range is broad, including royal blue to azure-blue (most common collector form), also white, grey, pink, orange, yellow, green, and colorless. The luster is vitreous, sub-vitreous, greasy, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent (crystals); translucent to opaque (massive). The cleavage is poor on {110}. The fracture is uneven, conchoidal, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Among collectors of crystallized species, Sodalite is a recognized reference. Sodalite is widely represented across Chinese provinces, including Yunnan, Sichuan, Tibet, Heilongjiang.