Cinnabar is a bright red mineral made of mercury and sulfur. Its chemical formula is HgS (mercury sulfide).
Why is cinnabar important?
- Source of mercury: Cinnabar is the most important natural ore of mercury. Mercury can be extracted from it, though this process can release harmful mercury vapor.
- Red pigment: When ground into a powder, cinnabar has been used for centuries to make the vivid red pigment called vermilion.
- Geological clue: It often forms near volcanic areas and hot springs, where mineral-rich fluids move through rocks.
Safety
Cinnabar contains mercury, which is toxic. It is safest to admire the mineral without grinding, heating, or inhaling its dust. Heating it can release especially dangerous mercury vapor.