Large Hackmanite Sphere

Hackmanite is a fascinating variety of the mineral sodalite, known for its unique property called tenebrescence or reversible photochromism. When hackmanite is exposed to ultraviolet (UV) light, it undergoes a temporary change in color, typically from a pale pink or violet to a more intense purple or blue hue. This color change is reversible; when the UV light source is removed, the color gradually fades back to its original state over time.

Hackmanite is named after the Finnish mineralogist Victor Axel Hackman, who first described this phenomenon in the late 19th century. It's primarily found in igneous rocks, especially in alkaline syenites and related pegmatites.

In addition to its intriguing color-changing property, hackmanite is also valued for its aesthetic appeal. It's often used in jewelry and lapidary work, where its unique optical characteristics make it a prized collector's item. Metaphysically, hackmanite is believed to have properties similar to sodalite, such as enhancing intuition, communication, and emotional balance. It's also associated with spiritual growth and psychic development.