Discovered in 1806, sodalite stone was documented and analysed by Scottish doctor and mineralogist Thomas Thomson (1773–1852) in 1811. The latter relied on extracts from Greenland. In 1891, sodalite was recognised as an ornamental stone.
More recently, after a diplomatic meeting in Canada, King George V’s wife, Mary of Tec (1867–1952) was captivated by sodalite stone. The Princess of Wales then ordered a very large quantity of sodalite to the United Kingdom, in particular to refine her apartments at Marlborough House in London. Sodalites’ popularity grew rapidly.
Sodalite stone owes its etymology to the combination of the terms “soda” for sodium and the Greek “lithos” meaning “stone”. It can thus be termed “sodium stone’. Sodalite belongs to the silicate group and is a mineral species in its own right. It is composed of sodium silicate with chlorine and aluminium. This composition is also found in lapis lazuli stone.
Sodalite stone can be both translucent and opaque. It is very rarely transparent, however. It can display pink, yellow, white, green and variants of blue. Its dominant colour is azure blue which explains its confusion with lapis lazuli. Its hardness varies between 5.5 and 6 on the Mohs scale.
The primary deposits of sodalite stone are found in Afghanistan, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, the United States, France, Greenland, India, Italy, Namibia, Pakistan and South West Africa.
Sodalite stone symbolises understanding, both of ourselves and our world. It also symbolises the understanding of new patterns and mental clarification. Sodalite de-rigidifies the mind. It also helps to develop the brain, whether in thought or logic. A humility stone, sodalite offers loyalty but also courage. This stone will therefore dispel anxieties and fears. It has similar virtues to lapis lazuli stone due to its chemical composition. Professionally, this protective stone offers stability, self-control and logic.
Sodalite stone is widely used in litho therapy to develop patient’s logic but also to capture thought in a wholly rational way, and so it also develops mediumnity. The sixth and seventh chakras are prioritised in their reharmonisation and realignment. It stabilises patient’s emotions. If you are hypersensitive, sodalite is perfect for you and will accompany you in the channelling of this feeling. It is also known for its effects on high blood pressure.
Sodalite also brings confidence, self-esteem but also appreciation of others. Solidarity is therefore strongly developed thanks to sodalite stone. It emits soothing and relaxing energies in its environment. This stone is perfect for comforting people. By placing it in a room for example, your sleep will be deeper. If, on the other hand, you position it in your office, sodalite will promote your concentration.