Tiemannite
A variety of Minerals
What is Tiemannite?
Tiemannite is a mineral, mercury selenide, formula HgSe. It occurs in hydrothermal veins associated with other selenides, or other mercury minerals such as cinnabar, and often with calcite. Discovered in 1855 in Germany, it is named after Johann Carl Wilhelm Tiemann (1848–1899).
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Tiemannite 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.
Tiemannite Localities Map
See where Tiemannite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Steel-gray to black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5
- Streak
- Black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- HgSe
- Elements
- Hg, Se
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Tiemannite FAQs
How do I identify Tiemannite?
Tiemannite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 on the Mohs scale, Steel-gray to black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Tiemannite?
Tiemannite typically appears in Steel-gray to black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Tiemannite?
Tiemannite has a hardness of 2.5 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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