Discover our curated selection of Cinnabar gemstones, known for their striking red color and rarity. At GemSelect, we offer natural, certified stones in a range of shapes and sizes-all in stock and ready for global delivery at fair prices.
What is Cinnabar and how is it used as a gemstone?
Cinnabar is a mercury sulfide mineral (HgS) known for its intense red to reddish-orange color. While it's primarily valued as an ore of mercury, select pieces are carved or polished for ornamental gemstone use, especially in cabochon or carved forms.
Is Cinnabar safe to wear as a gemstone?
Cinnabar contains mercury, so it should not be worn on skin for extended periods or in jewelry that may be abraded or exposed to heat. It is best suited for display pieces or occasional-wear jewelry in sealed or protected settings.
Where does gem-quality Cinnabar come from?
The finest Cinnabar specimens for ornamental use are found in China, Spain, and parts of the USA, including California and Nevada. Chinese deposits are particularly known for producing carvable material.
What color is natural Cinnabar?
Natural Cinnabar is bright scarlet to deep crimson red. Its bold color is one of its defining and most desirable features, though it may darken or tarnish if exposed to air and light over time.
What shapes and cuts are available for Cinnabar gemstones?
Due to its softness and fragility (Mohs 2–2.5), Cinnabar is usually cut into cabochons or carved into intricate figures. Faceting is extremely rare and impractical for this mineral.
How rare are Cinnabar gemstones?
Gem-quality Cinnabar is rare because it is soft, toxic in raw form, and not commonly used in fine jewelry. However, it is prized by collectors and those interested in metaphysical or historical gems.
How should Cinnabar gemstones be handled or stored?
Handle with care, store in sealed containers, and avoid contact with acids, heat, or prolonged skin exposure. Always wash hands after handling raw or uncoated pieces.
GemSelect Certified Store Reviews
GemSelect: Over 22 Years in the Gemstone Business! Thank you for trusting us with your purchase!
Overall Rating -> 10
Had a great experience and the prices are great
Posted By BuBx99 in November, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
The citrine gems are beautiful. I appreciated that each stone was individually shown on the website so I could see exactly what I was getting. No mystery person selecting random stones for me. The documentation included with each gem was high quality as well. Great price and arrived as expected.
Posted By Jen in December, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
Absolutely love the website, selection and products. Can you guys add a gemstones with inclusions tab. I like those it'd be nice to have them all in one place but i do understand it would be alot of work to go through and categorize them. Thank you anyways
Posted By The homie edgar in December, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 9
I love wide range of stones.
Always have my preference.
Posted By Ray in April, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
I have purchased stones from gem select in the past and have been very satisfied. I expect to repeat that experience with this purchase as well
Posted By Marti in July, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
So far good. We will see when it comes in
Posted By Online Shopper in April, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 9
This was my first experience with this site and it was good. After I receiving my product will the ultimate deciding factor whether or not I return for another purchase. I hope to return.
Posted By Online Shopper in March, 2025
Source: Bizrate
Overall Rating -> 10
It's always a pleasure doing business with Gem Select. Outstanding products ant very reasonable prices. Thank You One and All.
