Tugtupite, Chkalovite, Polylithionite - Ilimaussaq, Greenland

Contributed by: Mark Cole
Date: Apr 2nd, 2026
Locality: Kangerluarsuk Fjord, Ilímaussaq complex, Kujalleq, Greenland (See on Mindat)
Size: 3 x 1 x 3.5 inches
Weight: 6.3 oz

Description:
Pieces from this area within the Ilimaussaq Complex were nicknamed "Kangerella" for their beauty. The tugtupite responds differently to each wavelength, is nicely tenebrescent, and very phosphorescent. The blue fluorescing chkalovite responds under all wavelengths. The polylithionite fluoresces a bright yellow-green under SW UV.

Originally posted by Mark Cole on Nature's Rainbows in 2016.

Fluorescence under shortwave UV light.

Tenebrescence after exposure to shortwave UV light.

Fluorescence under longwave UV light. Side 2.

Fluorescence under midwave UV light. Side 2.

Afterglow after exposure to shortwave UV light. Side 2.

Tenebrescence after exposure to shortwave UV light. Side 2.

Normal light. Side 2.

Summary of luminescence responses:

Tugtupite (Mindat) (RRUFF)

• Fluorescence under Longwave (365nm LED) UV light: Orange
• Fluorescence under Midwave (305nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: Pink
• Fluorescence under Shortwave (254nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: Red
• Afterglow after exposure to Shortwave (254nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: Blue
• Tenebrescence after exposure to Shortwave (254nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: Purple

• Fluorescence under Shortwave (254nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: Yellow

• Fluorescence under Longwave (365nm LED) UV light: Blue
• Fluorescence under Midwave (305nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: Blue
• Fluorescence under Shortwave (254nm Lamp/Mercury) UV light: Blue