Sodalite
Sodalite is a mineral that is a member of the feldspathoid group of minerals. It is typically blue in color and is often used as a gemstone. Here is some information about Sodalite:
Types & Varieties
Sodalite is typically classified as a tectosilicate mineral. It can also be classified as a member of the sodalite group of minerals, which includes other minerals like hauyne and lazurite.
Elementary Chemical Analysis
Sodalite is composed of sodium, aluminum, silicon, chlorine, and oxygen. Its chemical formula is Na8Al6Si6O24Cl2.
Physical Properties
- Hardness: 5.5-6 on the Mohs scale
- Specific gravity: 2.1-2.3
- Luster: vitreous to greasy
- Transparency: translucent to opaque
- Crystal system: isometric
Optical Properties
- Color: typically blue, but can also be gray, yellow, green, or white
- Cleavage: none
- Fracture: conchoidal
- Pleochroism: none
- Refractive index: 1.48-1.5
Uses
Sodalite is often used as a decorative stone and as a gemstone. It is also used as a source of sodium and as a material for making ceramics and glass. In addition, it is used in some types of concrete and as a component of some mineral supplements.
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