mineral
Cinnabar
Mercury(II) sulfide (HgS)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectHardness: 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
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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.
