Tugtupit , deer stone is a rare collection mineral of the class of silicates , feldspathoid , sodium silicate, aluminum and beryllium . The name is given by the tract in Greenland and means " deer stone " (not to be confused with deer stone ).
| Toughtupit | |
|---|---|
 Tugtupit interspersed sample from Canada | |
| Formula | Na 4 [BeAlSi 4 O 12 ] Cl |
| Physical properties | |
| Colour | Dark red with a purple tint |
| Trait color | White |
| Shine | Glass |
| Transparency | Opaque, sometimes translucent |
| Hardness | 6 |
| Kink | Uneven, conch |
| Density | 2.36-2.57 g / cm³ |
| Syngonia | Tetragonal |
| Refractive index | 1.496 - 1.502 |
Properties
The stone is often spotty due to inclusions of other minerals. It occurs in the form of small crystals , granular and continuous masses. The product of hydrothermal processes is formed in nepheline syenites and sedimentary rocks . In long-wave ultraviolet radiation, it exhibits bright orange fluorescence . The color of the stone becomes paler when stored in the dark (in the light, the color is restored). Composition (%): Na - 19.66; Al - 5.77; Be - 1.93; Si - 24.02; Cl 7.58; O - 41.05. The properties are close to sodalite .
Opened in 1960 (according to other sources - in 1962) in the south of Greenland . In addition to Greenland, it is also found in Russia ( Kola Peninsula ) and Canada . Tugtupit is rare, can be used as an ornamental stone , faceted in the form of cabochons . Appreciated by collectors of minerals.
Literature
- Schumann V. The world of stone. Precious and ornamental stones. - M .: Mir, 1986. P.196.