How do I identify Montroydite?

Montroydite can be identified by its hardness of 1.5 - 2 on the Mohs scale, Deep red color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Montroydite?

Montroydite typically appears in Deep red, brownish red to brown; Orange-red to pale yellow in transmitted light, with decreasing thickness. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Montroydite?

Montroydite has a hardness of 1.5 - 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.

Montroydite

A variety of Minerals

What is Montroydite?

Montroydite is the mineral form of mercury(II) oxide with formula HgO. It is a rare mercury mineral. It was first described for an occurrence in the mercury deposit at Terlingua, Texas and named for Montroyd Sharp who was an owner of the deposit. Montroydite occurs in mercury deposits of hydrothermal origin. Associated minerals include: native mercury, cinnabar, metacinnabar, calomel, eglestonite, terlinguaite, mosesite, kleinite, edgarbaileyite, gypsum, calcite and dolomite.

Montroydite Market Value Calculator

Estimate the market value of Montroydite using size, quality, and finish. This preview calculator is for quick context and is not a formal appraisal.

Montroydite Localities Map

See where Montroydite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.

Map preview

North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color: Deep red, brownish red to brown; Orange-red to pale yellow in transmitted light, with decreasing thickness
Hardness (Mohs): 1.5 - 2
Density: 11.22 g/cm³
Streak: Yellow-brown