Wattersite
A variety of Minerals
What is Wattersite?
Wattersite is a rare mercury chromate mineral with the formula Hg4HgCrO6. It occurs in association with native mercury and cinnabar in a hydrothermally altered serpentinite. It was first described from Clear Creek claim, San Benito County, California, USA in 1961. It was named to honor Californian mineral collector Lucius "Lu" Watters.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Wattersite 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.
Wattersite Localities Map
See where Wattersite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Dark red-brown to black
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 4.5
- Density
- 8.91 g/cm³
- Streak
- Dark brick-red
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- ([Hg1+]2)2Hg2+(CrO4)O2
- Elements
- Cr, Hg, O
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Wattersite FAQs
How do I identify Wattersite?
Wattersite can be identified by its hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale, Dark red-brown to black color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Wattersite?
Wattersite typically appears in Dark red-brown to black. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Wattersite?
Wattersite has a hardness of 4.5 on the Mohs scale. This gives it moderate hardness.
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