Sodalite is named for its sodium content. Around 2,600 BC, the Caral peoples (now modern Peru) traded sodalite as a form of currency, as did the residents of Tiwanaku (now modern Bolivia). Sodalite was considered a guardian for heroes and heroines, for those speaking truth to power. It encourages rational thought, objectivity, honesty and the verbalization of feelings. Sodalite brings emotional balance and calms panic attacks. It enhances self-esteem, self-acceptance and self-trust. Sodalite balances the metabolism, boosts the immune system and overcomes calcium deficiencies.