Cinnabar in Matrix
Cinnabar (Mercury Sulfide) · Mineral Specimen / Industrial Mineral (Ore)
Crystal System
Trigonal; massive to granular habit as shown in the host rock matrix.
Mineral Group
Sulfides
Chemical Formula
HgS
Formation Process
Hydrothermal; typically follows low-temperature hydrothermal veins or volcanic activity.
About This Crystal
Visible as dull red to bright scarlet granular patches embedded in a gray brecciated or silty matrix. The luster is typically sub-metallic to adamantine when fresh but appears earthy in raw specimens. Transparency is opaque in massive form but translucent in individual crystals.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Cochineal red; Streak: Scarlet; Fracture: Uneven to sub-conchoidal; Specific Gravity: 8.1; Highly toxic due to mercury content.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 2.905 – 3.256; Birefringence: 0.351 (Extremely high); No significant pleochroism in massive forms.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Guizhou, China; Idrija, Slovenia; Almadén, Spain; and California, USA.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 2.0 – 2.5; Very soft and fragile. Low durability; can be scratched with a fingernail or copper coin.
Care & Maintenance
DANGER: Contains Mercury. Wash hands after handling. Do not inhale dust. Store in a sealed container away from sunlight, as it can darken (photo-sensitivity). Do not use liquids for cleaning.
Rarity & Value
Relatively common as an ore, but high-quality crystalline specimens are rare. Value is modest for matrix pieces but higher for 'jewelry grade' crystals/carvings.
Special Characteristics
Known as 'Dragon's Blood' in various cultures. High density makes it feel surprisingly heavy for its size.
Lore & History
Used since antiquity as a pigment (Vermilion). Historically associated with alchemy and immortality in ancient China, though its toxicity led to many deaths. Not recommended for modern healing practices involving skin contact.