COMPARE GUIDE
Lapis LazuliVSSodalite
Side-by-side comparison of physical properties, fluorescence, and crystal system — to identify by observation.
Decisive distinctionsDECISIVE
- ◎ is higher in Lapis Lazuli, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
- ◎ is higher in Lapis Lazuli, giving a numerical distinguishing point.
Note: properties whose numeric ranges do not overlap are auto-extracted. Both are measurable with a refractometer or heavy-liquid bath.
Physical propertiesPROPERTIES
| Property | A: Lapis Lazuli | B: Sodalite | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|
| Refractive index (RI) | 1.500–1.520 | 1.483–1.490 | A higher |
| Specific gravity (SG) | 2.50–3.00 | 2.13–2.30 | A higher |
| Mohs hardness | 5.5 | 5.5–6.0 | Overlap |
| Birefringence | — | — | — |
| Dispersion | — | — | — |
Optics & fluorescenceOPTICS & UV
| Property | A: Lapis Lazuli | B: Sodalite |
|---|---|---|
| Crystal system | 等軸晶系（多鉱物） | 等軸晶系 |
| Pleochroism | — | — |
| Chelsea filter | — | — |
| UV (long-wave) | — | — |
| UV (short-wave) | weak (white) | weak (orange) |
ObservationOBSERVATION
◆Sodalite is more violet-blue, lacks pyrite, and shows white veining of nepheline rather than calcite. Streak is similar but pyrite test is decisive.
Color categoriesCATEGORIES
A: Lapis Lazuli
Blue
B: Sodalite
Blue
DISTINGUISHING TOOLS · 2 ITEMS
Distinguishing tools
Tools that decide between Lapis Lazuli and Sodalite in practice.
Note: this page is auto-generated from published GIA / CGL reference values. Individual stones, treatments, and synthetics may fall outside these ranges. For a definitive identification, consult an accredited gem laboratory.