mineral

Cinnabar in Quartz

Silicon Dioxide (Quartz, SiO2) with Mercury Sulfide inclusions (Cinnabar, HgS)

Hardness: 7 (Quartz) with softer red inclusions (Cinnabar 2-2.5); Color: White/Translucent matrix with bright red splotches; Luster: Vitreous to Adamantine; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal.

Hardness: 7 (Quartz) with softer red inclusions (Cinnabar 2-2
Color: White/Translucent matrix with bright red splotches
Luster: Vitreous to Adamantine

Identified March 26, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 7 (Quartz) with softer red inclusions (Cinnabar 2-2.5); Color: White/Translucent matrix with bright red splotches; Luster: Vitreous to Adamantine; Crystal structure: Trigonal/Hexagonal.

Formation & geological history

Formed in low-temperature hydrothermal veins, often near volcanic activity or hot springs where mercury-rich fluids permeate porous quartz or silica-rich rock.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used as a lapidary material for jewelry (cabochons), carvings, and as a collector's specimen. Historically, cinnabar was a primary ore of mercury and used for pigments (vermilion).

Geological facts

Cinnabar in quartz is sometimes marketed as 'Dragon Blood' or 'Cinnabar Quartz.' Because cinnabar contains mercury, specimens should be handled with care, though the quartz matrix generally encapsulates the toxic mineral.

Field identification & locations

Identify by the distinct 'strawberry' or 'blood' red flecks against a milky or clear quartz background. It is commonly found in mercury mining districts such as those in China (Hunan Province), Spain, and the Western USA.

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