Sodalite

About Sodalite

A blue mineral often used as a lapis lazuli substitute - it lacks the pyrite flecks but can display rich blue color. Discovered in Greenland in 1806. Hackmanite, a variety of sodalite, exhibits tenebrescence - it changes color when exposed to UV light and reverts in darkness. The largest deposits are in Brazil and Canada. It is a component of lapis lazuli. The blue color comes from sulfur-containing radicals. It fluoresces orange under UV light. It is relatively affordable and popular in cabochon cuts. It was used in ancient Egyptian amulets. Bancroft, Ontario is a famous collecting locality. It is named for its sodium content.