mineral

Cinnabar

Mercury(II) sulfide (HgS)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Cochineal-red to brownish-red; Luster: Adamantine to dull earthy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 8.1

Hardness: 2
Color: Cochineal-red to brownish-red
Luster: Adamantine to dull earthy

Identified March 7, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Cochineal-red to brownish-red; Luster: Adamantine to dull earthy; Crystal Structure: Trigonal; Cleavage: Perfect; Specific Gravity: 8.1

Formation & geological history

Formed as a vein-filling mineral associated with recent volcanic activity and alkaline hot springs. It precipitates from ascending hydrothermal solutions at relatively low temperatures.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of mercury. Historically used as a pigment (vermilion) in ceramics, lacquerware, and art. Occasionally used in jewelry as carved segments, though limited due to toxicity.

Geological facts

Cinnabar has been used since the Neolithic age. It is the most common source of mercury in nature. In ancient China, it was used to produce red lacquer and was sometimes consumed in 'immortality' elixirs, which ironically led to mercury poisoning.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its striking bright red streak and high density (unusually heavy for a non-metallic mineral). Found in Almadén (Spain), Huancavelica (Peru), and various locations in China and California, USA.