'AA' Grade Large Namibian Superblue Sodalite Sphere - 85mm, 760g

Locality - Namibia
Size – 85mm
Weight – 760g

This large, solid sodalite sphere is a truly unique and exceptional piece, crafted from some of the highest grade Namibian 'superblue' sodalite found. It has consistent, deep, royal blue tones throughout with an area of shining, chatoyant, silvery-grey inclusions and some minor streaks of blood red. This sphere has been shaped and polished to perfection by an expert lapidary artist and displays beautifully from all faces. Sodalite of this high quality and size is very scarce, making this unique sphere a serious collectors piece and a treasure to behold. This sphere will be sent accompanied by an intricately carved rosewood stand as in the photographs.

Sodalite is named after its sodium content and is well-known for its deep blue colouration, although it can also be grey, yellow, green or pink. Blue sodalite is the most highly prized variety and is often used in jewelry.
Sodalite is found in many localities around the world, usually in very small deposits. The most impressive, translucent sodalite, forming in well-defined crystals rather than as veins in rocks can be found exclusively in Nambia and the lavas of Mt. Vesuvius in Italy.
Another notable feature note is that most sodalite will fluoresce orange under ultraviolet light.

Sodalite's use by mankind dates back for many milennia. It was traded by the Norte Chico civilization 5500 years ago, with specimens found in the city of Caral, the oldest city in the Americas, situated in modern Peru. Although little is known about the use of the stone, its blue colouration would have been rare in the region and therefore highly prized.