What is cinnabrit?

Cinnabar is a bright red mineral, which is a source of mercury. It is also known as cinnabarite or vermilion. The name cinnabar is derived from "cinabar", which comes from the Persian word "zanjafar", meaning "dragon's blood". It is typically found in association with hot springs and volcanic activity, and is formed when hydrothermal fluids interact with rocks containing mercury.

Cinnabar has been used for thousands of years for its bright red pigment, which was commonly used in painting and as a cosmetic in ancient Egypt. However, cinnabar is highly toxic due to its high mercury content, and exposure to the mineral can lead to mercury poisoning.

Despite its toxicity, cinnabar is still used in some traditional medicines in China and other countries, as well as in some industrial processes. The use of cinnabar in traditional medicines has been controversial, and many governments have banned or strictly regulated its use.

Cinnabar is also a popular mineral for collectors, as it is an attractive and valuable specimen. It can be found in many locations around the world, including China, Spain, Italy, Mexico, and the United States.