Kyanite vs Sodalite: What Are They, And What's The Difference?

There is always some confusion in the gems and minerals world when comparing two elements, and the comparison of kyanite against sodalite is no different.

These two stones are widely confused with each other because they look very similar.

Learn more about the differences and similarities between kyanite and sodalite in the article that follows.

Kyanite vs Sodalite: The Basics

What is Kyanite?

Kyanite is a blue stone that is often elongated in shape, and that is due to its chemical composition.

The name kyanite comes from the word “kyanos” which means blue, a term invented by Abraham Gottlieb Werner 1789.

This is a stone that is marked by long columns of crystals, and it appears in a unique and bright shade of blue.

On the Mohs hardness scale, kyanite has a hardness of 5.5 to 7.

This is a stone that is known to have a dual hardness, which is a term for classification and identification purposes.

Kyanite is a reliable and durable stone because of this hardness, and as such is used in a wide variety of applications from porcelain.

Newcomers to the material can confuse it with sapphire and lapis lazuli.

Uses of Kyanite

Kyanite is used in a variety of applications, from porcelain to automotive and railroad uses.

It is also often used in plumbing products, abrasives, and as an insulator.

Kyanite is found all over the world in large quantities, and has properties that make it useful for a wide variety of applications.

Common uses of kyanite include materials for bricks and mortar and industrial supplies for grinding and making wheels just to name a few.

In addition to being used for these industrial purposes, kyanite is used for many metaphysical purposes as well.

It is widely found all over the world, with the most deposits in the United States, France, and India.

Metaphysical Uses of Kyanite

One factor that lends the durability of kyanite stems from its ability to stay clean.

It is a unique feature that not every stone has.

In the world of metaphysical healing, kyanite does not need to be cleansed as many other crystals do.

It does not accumulate what is considered to be negative energy, nor does it retain it.

As a clean stone, kyanite in the New Age world offers a number of opportunities for healing the mind, soul, and the body.

Kyanite is frequently used by those who meditate.

It is said to align chakras and keep the energy systems in the world flowing.

The end result when used for this kind of healing is a calming impact on the body, to encourage peace and harmony.

As a stone that is rarely cleansed, kyanite is seen as pure enough to restore harmony in love and relationships, and also to improve one’s psychic ability.

It may help with anger, stress, and a frustrated emotional center.

It’s also been said to help with recalling dreams, and treating others with loyalty.

As such, kyanite may help with peace, and has even been reportedly used to resolve disputes, settle negotiations, and accomplish diplomacy.

Many people that are struggling with communication issues might turn to kyanite as a healing stone for metaphysical purposes.

This is a blue stone that is the color of the throat chakra, which when in good condition enables positive and loving communication.

It is considered to be a stone that can prevent and stop behavior that is self-destructive.

Some people experience side effects from using kyanite, so pay close attention to how you feel when you have it on your person.

What is Sodalite?

Sodalite is a stone that looks very similar to kyanite, but differs in a number of ways.

It is blue and almost violet in color, and has a composition that yields a hardness on the Mohs scale of 5.5 to 6.

Its appearance is somewhat translucent and it has a luster to it that is not common with mined minerals.

One distinct element of sodalite is that it often has white streaking in it, that can also be seen in the stone lapis lazuli, which also contains some sodalite.

This streaking is the product of white calcite deposits, which can be seen in many stones.

It is commonly found in Brazil, Romania, France, Burma, Namibia, Russia, Greenland and the United States.

Uses of Sodalite

There are many applications for sodalite in the world.

It is used for décor and gem purposes, including jewelry and interior design.

It is also very useful in a number of manufacturing and construction applications.

Sodalite is found in a number of towers all over the world, including famous obelisks and historical structures.

It also is seen and used in sculptures, art, and long slabs of stone used in construction.

Sodalite is considered a hard stone, and is often polished and formed into jewelry such as bracelets, earrings, rings, necklaces, and watches.

It is also widely used in the world of metaphysical healing.

Metaphysical Uses of Sodalite

In the world of metaphysical healing, sodalite is considered to help clear the mind and keep the brainwaves logical and reasonable.

This is a stone that reportedly provides clarity and truth for those that use it.

It is also said to enhance intuition.

For practitioners, sodalite is said to restore emotional balance and can even help during extreme mental crisis such as during panic attacks.

It is also considered to be a stone to help in developing trust, and can help in healing or strengthening communication problems.

That is because it is blue in color which is the shade of the throat chakra.

The throat chakra is said to be the center of communication in the body, and is considered to help keep clear and honest lines of communication.

Similarities and Differences Between Kyanite and Sodalite

The similarities between kyanite and sodalite are clear, and it is easy to see why people would be confused when comparing kyanite vs sodalite.

Kyanite and sodalite look very similar, as they are both blue in shape and often the same shade of blue.

Both stones also begin at 5 on the Mohs hardness scale.

From an appearance perspective, sodalite has calcium streaks in it that kyanite does not.

This is where their similarities end.

They may look the same, but they are used in much different applications, even in the metaphysical world.

Kyanite with its dual hardness is used in a wider range of applications than sodalite is.

When confused between sodalite and kyanite, it is this dual hardness that will distinguish the two.

Learn More About Kyanite and Sodalite Today

When you are looking to understand the differences between kyanite and sodalite, try having a look at the stones yourself.

Hold them both in your hands and see how they make you feel, and you will see why they are used in so many applications.

Learn more about the comparisons of kyanite and sodalite today.