Livingstonite

A variety of Minerals

Livingstonite specimen

What is Livingstonite?

Livingstonite is a mercury antimony sulfosalt mineral. It occurs in low-temperature hydrothermal veins associated with cinnabar, stibnite, sulfur and gypsum. It was first described in 1874 for an occurrence in Huitzuco de los Figueroa, Guerrero, Mexico. It was named to honor Scottish explorer of Africa, David Livingstone. Its crystal structure was determined in 1957 and redetermined in 1975.

Market Value Factors

Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Livingstonite before comparing listings or appraisals.

Size & Weight

Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.

Rarity & Demand

Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.

Condition & Finish

Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.

Treatment & Provenance

Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.

Applies to all rocks & minerals.

Livingstonite Localities Map

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

Map preview
North ZoneCentral RidgeSouth Basin

Interactive map layers and collecting notes are available in the app.

More Images

Livingstonite specimen
Robert M. Lavinsky

Quick Facts

Physical Properties

Color
Blackish-gray
Hardness (Mohs)
2
Density
5.013 g/cm³
Streak
Red

Chemical Properties

Chemical Formula
HgSb4S6(S2)
Elements
Hg, S, Sb
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Livingstonite FAQs

How do I identify Livingstonite?

Livingstonite can be identified by its hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, Blackish-gray color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.

What color is Livingstonite?

Livingstonite typically appears in Blackish-gray. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.

How hard is Livingstonite?

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

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