The Stone of Insight

A Journey Through Time
Sodalite was first identified in Greenland in 1811, but it gained prominence when vast deposits were discovered in Ontario, Canada, in 1891. Its vivid royal blue quickly made it a favorite in ornamental carving and jewelry. Though a relatively modern discovery compared to ancient gems, sodalite has been embraced as a stone of insight and clarity in both decorative arts and metaphysical traditions.

Nature and Beauty
Sodalite is a member of the feldspathoid mineral group, a sodium aluminum silicate chloride (Na₈(Al₆Si₆O₂₄)Cl₂). Its deep blue body is often accented by white calcite veining, creating striking contrasts reminiscent of the night sky. It measures 5.5–6 on the Mohs scale, making it softer than quartz, best suited for beads, cabochons, and ornamental pieces. Distinct from lapis lazuli, sodalite lacks pyrite flecks and tends to be more uniformly blue with gray or white streaks.

Symbolism and Energy
In Armillas’ language, sodalite is the stone of insight — encouraging rational thought, intuition, and self-expression. It is believed to unite logic with spirituality, helping the mind see truth beyond illusion. (Cultural lore; not a medical claim.)

Legacy and Meaning Today
Sodalite remains popular for both decorative art and jewelry. Its celestial blue, tied to wisdom and clarity, makes it a modern classic — a gem that bridges intellect and intuition.

Sources

• Mindat.org – Sodalite Mineral Information

• International Gem Society (IGS) – Sodalite Gemstone Information

• GIA Gem Encyclopedia – Sodalite vs. Lapis Lazuli