Kenhsuite
Chemical formula: Hg<sub>3</sub>S<sub>2</sub>Cl<sub>2</sub>
Kenhsuite is a very rare mercury sulfide and chloride, forming microscopic, dark red crystals with a metallic luster.
Properties
- Luster
- Metallic
- Streak
- Reddish-brown
- Density
- 7.95
- Cleavage
- Perfect on {0001}
- Fracture
- Uneven
- Transparency
- Opaque
- Crystal system
- Trigonal
Diagnostic features
## Identification Identification of kenhsuite is based on its characteristic appearance at the micro-scale. Its dark red color, strong metallic luster, tabular crystal habit, and co-occurrence with other rare mercury minerals in a specific geological environment are key indicators. Final identification requires advanced analytical methods, such as X-ray diffraction (XRD) and chemical analysis (EDS). ## Distinguishing from similar minerals Kenhsuite can be confused with other red mercury minerals, such as cinnabar (HgS) or corderoite (Hg₃S₂Cl₂). Cinnabar has a brighter, scarlet-red color and adamantine luster, and its streak is red. Corderoite is very similar but crystallizes in a different system (isometric) and has a slightly different chemical composition. Distinguishing these minerals without specialized equipment is practically impossible. ## Crystal forms Kenhsuite forms very small, tabular crystals with a hexagonal outline, often flattened. It also occurs as aggregates composed of fine, bladed or prismatic crystals.
Geological environment
## Genesis Kenhsuite is a low-temperature hydrothermal mineral. It forms in the final stages of crystallization in mercury deposits that developed in volcanic rocks, such as rhyolites and volcanic tuffs, near hot springs. ## Mineral associations This mineral co-occurs with other mercury minerals and sulfides. It is most commonly associated with: cinnabar, calomel, native mercury, corderoite, kleinite, terlinguaite, montroydite, as well as calcite and quartz. ## Localities The only confirmed and described locality for kenhsuite in the world is its type locality – the McDermitt mine (Cordero Mine) in the Opalite district, Humboldt County, Nevada, USA.
Rarity
Extremely rare
For collectors
## Quality criteria The quality of kenhsuite specimens is primarily assessed based on the richness and visibility of crystals on the rock matrix. Most valued are specimens where the crystals, despite their microscopic size, are well-formed, have an intense red color, and form dense aggregates. Contrast with a light matrix rock also enhances visual appeal. ## Popular localities The only source of kenhsuite specimens is the McDermitt mine in Nevada. Material from this locality is extremely rare and sought after by specialized "micromount" mineral collectors.
Care and storage
## Cleaning Specimens of kenhsuite should generally not be cleaned. Any attempts at mechanical or chemical cleaning will almost certainly destroy the microscopic and delicate crystals. If dust removal is necessary, a gentle stream of compressed air can be used from a safe distance. ## What to avoid Contact with water, chemicals, acids, and ultrasonics should be strictly avoided. The mineral is sensitive to temperature changes and vibrations. As a mercury mineral, it is potentially toxic – avoid inhaling dust and direct skin contact. Wash hands thoroughly after any contact with the specimen. ## Storage Kenhsuite specimens should be stored under stable conditions, in closed, padded "micromount" boxes to protect them from mechanical damage, dust, and moisture. They should be kept away from heat sources and direct sunlight.