Introduction to Cinnabar

I. Source and Mining

Cinnabar mainly consists of mercury sulfide (HgS) and comes from mercury mines. Cinnabar deposits are found in many parts of the world, including some regions in Africa. Cinnabar is usually obtained from ores through underground or open - pit mining. After mining, a series of preliminary processing steps such as ore dressing and crushing are required to obtain the cinnabar raw materials for various uses.

II. Appearance and Physical Properties

1. Color and Luster

• Cinnabar has a vivid color, mainly ranging from deep red to vermilion. This unique color makes it easily recognizable among many minerals. It has an adamantine luster, and under light irradiation, its surface reflects a bright shine, similar to the luster of a diamond, which is very dazzling.

2. Hardness and Density

• The Mohs hardness of cinnabar is about 2 - 2.5, and its texture is relatively soft. It can be easily scratched with a fingernail. Its density is relatively large, approximately 8 - 8.2 g/cm³, which gives a heavy feeling when held in the hand.

3. Crystal Form and Structure

• The crystal form of cinnabar is often plate - like or columnar, and sometimes it also appears as granular aggregates. In ores, these crystal structures can be clearly seen. The plate - like crystals interlace with each other, or the columnar crystals are arranged in a regular shape, forming the unique appearance of cinnabar ores.

III. Chemical Properties

1. Stability and Reactivity

• Cinnabar is relatively chemically stable under normal temperature and pressure. However, when it is exposed to high temperature or strong oxidizing agents, it will undergo chemical reactions. For example, when cinnabar is heated in the air, mercury sulfide will decompose to produce mercury and sulfur dioxide, and the mercury will vaporize. In some chemical reactions, cinnabar can also react with some acids, but the reaction conditions and extent vary depending on the type and concentration of the acid.

2. Toxic - related Properties

• Since the main component of cinnabar is mercury sulfide and mercury is a toxic element, cinnabar is a toxic mineral. During use and processing, it is necessary to avoid ingestion or inhalation of cinnabar dust to prevent harm to the human body.

IV. Uses

1. Traditional Chinese Medicine Field

• In traditional Chinese medicine, cinnabar is a traditional Chinese medicinal material. It is considered to have effects such as sedation and tranquilization and is often used to treat symptoms such as insomnia and palpitations. However, due to its toxicity, it needs to be used strictly in accordance with medical advice, and modern medicine is constantly researching the safety and efficacy of cinnabar's medicinal use.

2. Pigment Field

• Cinnabar has a vivid and long - lasting color and has been an important pigment since ancient times. In ancient painting, calligraphy and other artistic creations, cinnabar was widely used to paint red parts. It can be used alone or mixed with other pigments to mix different shades and hues of red. Even in modern times, cinnabar pigments are still used in some traditional painting and calligraphy restoration and art - work production.

3. Handicrafts and Jewelry Field

• Due to its bright color and certain luster, cinnabar is used to make various handicrafts and jewelry. In handicraft making, it can be carved into various - shaped ornaments such as Buddha statues and zodiac signs. In jewelry, cinnabar can be made into beads for making necklaces, bracelets and other accessories, adding beauty to people. However, when wearing jewelry containing cinnabar, it is also necessary to avoid long - term skin contact with cinnabar to prevent the absorption of mercury elements.