How to Tell the Difference Between Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli

How to Tell the Difference Between Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli

Introduction

Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli are two beautiful and popular blue gemstones, often confused due to their similar appearance. However, they are distinct stones with unique characteristics, origins, and uses. If you're interested in purchasing or identifying these stones, it’s essential to know how to tell them apart. In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli, covering their appearance, composition, metaphysical properties, and more.

1. Color and Appearance

While both Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli share a similar blue color, there are subtle but clear differences in their appearance.

• Sodalite: Sodalite is typically a deeper blue stone, with white veining running through it, often resembling marble. The blue in Sodalite can range from light to dark blue, and it frequently contains patches of gray or white due to calcite inclusions. You won’t see gold flecks in Sodalite.

• Lapis Lazuli: Lapis Lazuli, on the other hand, is known for its rich, royal blue color, often with golden flecks of pyrite (fool’s gold). These pyrite inclusions give Lapis Lazuli a glittering effect that is absent in Sodalite. High-quality Lapis Lazuli is a more uniform blue without the white streaks found in Sodalite.

Key Difference:

• Lapis Lazuli often has golden pyrite flecks, while Sodalite does not.
• Sodalite contains white or gray veining from calcite, which is rarely seen in Lapis Lazuli.

2. Composition

The chemical composition of Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli is another key factor in differentiating between the two stones.

• Sodalite: Sodalite is a feldspathoid mineral primarily composed of sodium, aluminum, and silicate, which gives it its distinctive blue color. It also contains chlorine, contributing to its formation.

• Lapis Lazuli: Lapis Lazuli is not a single mineral but a rock composed mainly of lazurite, along with smaller amounts of calcite, pyrite, and sodalite. The presence of lazurite gives Lapis its deep blue color, while pyrite inclusions add gold sparkles.

Key Difference:

• Sodalite is a single mineral, while Lapis Lazuli is a rock made of multiple minerals, primarily lazurite and pyrite.

3. Hardness and Durability

The hardness of a stone can also help in distinguishing between Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli.

• Sodalite: Sodalite has a Mohs hardness rating of 5.5 to 6, making it a relatively soft stone. It can scratch easily if exposed to rough surfaces or sharp objects.

• Lapis Lazuli: Lapis Lazuli is slightly harder, with a Mohs hardness rating of 5 to 5.5, though it is still considered a soft stone. Despite being similar in hardness to Sodalite, Lapis Lazuli’s pyrite inclusions can give it a slightly harder texture in areas.

Key Difference:
Both stones are soft, but Lapis Lazuli tends to feel slightly more durable due to the pyrite content.

4. Price and Value

The market value of Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli differs significantly due to their rarity and demand.

• Sodalite: Sodalite is generally more affordable and widely available. Its abundance and lower demand make it a budget-friendly option for jewelry and decorative items.

• Lapis Lazuli: Lapis Lazuli, especially high-quality specimens with fewer calcite inclusions and richer blue tones, can be more expensive. Genuine Lapis from places like Afghanistan is highly valued, and the presence of pyrite adds to its allure and price.

Key Difference:

• Sodalite is more affordable and commonly available.
• Lapis Lazuli is rarer and commands a higher price, especially in its finest quality.

5. Geographical Origin

Both stones come from different parts of the world, with distinct mining locations.

• Sodalite: Sodalite is found in regions like Canada, Greenland, Namibia, and Russia. The most famous deposits are in Canada, specifically in Ontario.

• Lapis Lazuli: Lapis Lazuli has been mined for thousands of years, primarily from Afghanistan, which produces some of the finest Lapis in the world. Other sources include Chile, Russia, and Myanmar.

Key Difference:

• Sodalite is commonly mined in Canada, while the best Lapis Lazuli comes from Afghanistan.

6. Metaphysical Properties

Both stones have metaphysical properties, but they differ in their primary uses and effects.

• Sodalite: Sodalite is often referred to as the “Stone of Logic” or the “Stone of Truth.” It’s known for enhancing rational thinking, objectivity, and clarity. It’s a great stone for students, researchers, and those who need to stay mentally focused.

• Lapis Lazuli: Lapis Lazuli is considered a “Stone of Wisdom” and is linked to spiritual growth, intuition, and enlightenment. It enhances spiritual awareness, fosters creativity, and aids in deepening meditation practices. Lapis Lazuli is often associated with the third eye and throat chakras, promoting spiritual connection and clear communication.

Key Difference:

• Sodalite is used for enhancing logic, clarity, and objectivity.
• Lapis Lazuli is more spiritual, aiding in wisdom, intuition, and creativity.

7. Testing and Identification Tips

If you're still unsure about whether you're dealing with Sodalite or Lapis Lazuli, here are a few simple tests:

• Magnification: Use a jeweler’s loupe or magnifying glass to closely examine the stone. Lapis Lazuli should display gold flecks (pyrite) under magnification, while Sodalite will show white calcite veins.

• Scratch Test: While both stones are relatively soft, you can gently scratch the surface with a harder object like a steel blade. Lapis Lazuli’s pyrite inclusions may resist scratching slightly more than Sodalite.

• UV Light Test: Some Sodalite specimens fluoresce under UV light, while Lapis Lazuli does not. This is a more advanced test and may require specialized equipment.

Conclusion

While Sodalite and Lapis Lazuli share similar blue tones, they are distinct in their composition, appearance, and uses. Sodalite is characterized by its deep blue color with white calcite veins and is an affordable option for enhancing logic and clarity. Lapis Lazuli, with its royal blue color and gold pyrite flecks, is a stone of wisdom, intuition, and spiritual growth. Knowing these differences will help you identify each stone accurately and choose the best one for your needs.

 

Buy Original Lapis Lazuli stone at Vedic Crystals website

For more information about Vedic Crystals and our range of gemstones and rudraksha beads, visit Vedic Crystals website or contact us at contactus@vediccrystals.com/ or click here to chat 

Also if you found this article useful , please share it with someone who might need it.

Moreover, in case you want a additional 5% discount coupon on our entire range of gemstones and Rudraksha : Please comment "Interested" below.

--------------------------