Galena
Galena (Lead Sulfide) · Mineral Specimen / Industrial Ore
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); typically occurs as cubes, octahedrons, or massive/granular aggregates
Mineral Group
Sulfides (Galena Group)
Chemical Formula
PbS (often containing trace Silver, Antimony, or Arsenic)
Formation Process
Hydrothermal; formed in low to medium temperature hydrothermal veins and as replacement deposits in limestone
About This Crystal
Lead-grey metallic mineral with a bright luster on fresh surfaces. Often occurs in cubic forms or as finely granular masses. Can be associated with yellow/brown iron oxides (limonite) or quartz.
Physical Characteristics
Lead-grey color; lead-grey streak; perfect cubic cleavage in three directions; subconchoidal fracture; specific gravity 7.2–7.6; metallic luster; non-fluorescent
Optical Properties
Opaque; isotropic; metallic reflectivity; does not transmit light even in thin sections
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Missouri (USA), Morocco, Bulgaria, Peru; commonly found in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness 2.5; brittle; very low durability for jewelry; splits easily along cleavage planes
Care & Maintenance
Wash hands after handling due to lead content; store in a dry environment to prevent oxidation; clean only with a soft brush, avoid chemicals/water
Rarity & Value
Very common; value is generally low for massive specimens, higher for well-formed cubic crystals; primary ore of lead
Special Characteristics
High density (feels very heavy for its size); perfect cubic cleavage; can be argentiferous (silver-bearing)
Lore & History
Used by Ancient Egyptians as kohl for eyeliner; historically the primary source of lead and silver; traditionally associated with grounding and protection in folklore