Comparison · Minerals
Labradorite vs Sodalite
Labradorite and Sodalite are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Labradorite and Sodalite
- Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- They overlap in gray and blue, but Labradorite also comes in green and yellow and Sodalite also comes in white.
- Well-formed crystals give it away: Labradorite is triclinic, Sodalite is cubic.
Labradorite vs Sodalite properties
| Property | Labradorite | Sodalite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 6 | 5.5 |
| Luster | vitreous | vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | translucent | translucent |
| Specific gravity | 2.7 | 2.3 |
| Crystal system | triclinic | cubic |
| Common colors | Gray, Blue flash, Green flash, Gold flash | Blue, Blue with white veins, Gray-Blue |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $5–$300+ | $5–$100+ |
Which is more valuable?
Labradorite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $30 against $20 for Sodalite, and premium Labradorite can reach $300 or more.
About Labradorite
Labradorite is a feldspar mineral famous for its stunning iridescent display called labradorescence, showing flashes of blue, green, gold, and orange.
About Sodalite
Sodalite is a rich royal blue mineral often with white calcite veining. It's sometimes confused with lapis lazuli but lacks the golden pyrite flecks.
Labradorite vs Sodalite FAQ
Is Labradorite the same as Sodalite?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Labradorite from Sodalite?
Both sit near Mohs 6, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. They overlap in gray and blue, but Labradorite also comes in green and yellow and Sodalite also comes in white. Well-formed crystals give it away: Labradorite is triclinic, Sodalite is cubic.
Which is harder, Labradorite or Sodalite?
Labradorite is harder: Mohs 6 against Mohs 5.5 for Sodalite.
Which is more valuable, Labradorite or Sodalite?
Labradorite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $30 against $20 for Sodalite, and premium Labradorite can reach $300 or more.
