Cinnabar

specimen number:
2262141

location:
Charcas, San Luis Potosi, Mexico

description:

Quite nice for the species from this locality, lustrous translucent red crystals and partial crystals of cinnabar to 0.6 cm in size with calcite. The specimen comes with a previous label from Commercial Mineral Corporation as shown at the end of the video.

Charcas, located in the northern part of San Luis Potosi, Mexico, is a prolific mining district known for its complex polymetallic skarn deposits and striking mineral specimens. Geologically, the region features Cretaceous limestones that were intruded by Tertiary granitic bodies, resulting in a classic replacement and vein system rich in silver, lead, and zinc, with localized occurrences of mercury minerals. Cinnabar, the bright red mercury sulfide, occurs at Charcas as a secondary mineral within the oxidation zones or as late-stage hydrothermal coatings, often presenting as vibrant scarlet masses or small, brilliant crystals associated with calcite and quartz. Historically, mining and quarrying in the district began in the late 1500s following the Spanish discovery of silver, making it one of the oldest active mining camps in Mexico. Industrial-scale exploitation of the massive skarn bodies and associated veins intensified in the late 19th century and has continued through various ownerships, including the modern operations at the Santa Eulalia and San Sebastian units. While primarily a producer of base metals and silver, Charcas has remained a significant locality for mineral collectors due to its unique mineral associations and historical depth.

The Commercial Mineral Corporation, formerly located at 43 West 48th Street in New York City, was a notable fixture in the American mineral trade during the mid-20th century. Operating in the heart of Manhattan, the company specialized in providing both industrial mineral bulk and high-quality cabinet specimens to a diverse clientele of collectors and academic institutions. Geologically, their inventory was vast, often featuring significant copper minerals from Arizona, Tsumeb, and the Michigan Copper Country, alongside rare species sourced through their extensive global network. Historically, the firm was most active from the 1940s through the 1960s.

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