Tugtupite
Tugtupite · Rare Collector Mineral
Crystal System
Tetragonal, massive to granular habit
Mineral Group
Silicates (Tectosilicate)
Chemical Formula
Na4AlBeSi4O12Cl
Formation Process
Alkaline pegmatites and hydrothermal veins associated with nepheline syenites
About This Crystal
Whitish to pale greenish matrix hosting small patches and spots of deep pink to red tugtupite, opaque to translucent with a vitreous to greasy luster
Physical Characteristics
Color white to greenish-gray with pink/red spots, white streak, poor cleavage, conchoidal to uneven fracture, specific gravity 2.36, brittle, strongly fluorescent bright cherry red under shortwave and longwave UV
Optical Properties
Uniaxial (-), refractive index approximately 1.502 - 1.510, low birefringence
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Ilimaussaq alkaline complex, Greenland; Khibiny massif, Russia
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness 4, poor toughness, sensitive to sudden temperature changes and strong acids, poor wearability for high-impact jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Clean with mild soap and warm water, avoid ultrasonic cleaners and harsh chemicals, store away from harder minerals to prevent scratching
Rarity & Value
Rare to very rare, valued primarily by mineral collectors, price varies depending on color saturation and amount of pink material
Special Characteristics
Strong tenebrescence (some varieties can deepen in pink color when exposed to UV light or sunlight), brilliant red UV fluorescence
Lore & History
Discovered in 1957 in Greenland, associated with Inuit legends of love and the heart chakra in modern metaphysical crystal healing practices