Galena
Galena · Mineral Specimen / Ore Mineral
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); habit is typically cubic, octahedral, or massive/granular (as seen in this specimen)
Mineral Group
Sulfides
Chemical Formula
PbS (Lead Sulfide), often containing silver (Ag) as an impurity
Formation Process
Hydrothermal (low to medium temperature) in veins or replacement deposits in limestone and dolostone
About This Crystal
Specimen is a dense, opaque mass with a lead-gray color. It exhibits a distinct metallic luster with a somewhat grainy or crystalline surface texture and visible cleavage planes
Physical Characteristics
Color: Lead-gray; Streak: Lead-gray to black; Cleavage: Perfect cubic (three directions at 90 degrees); Fracture: Subconchoidal or uneven; Specific Gravity: 7.2–7.6 (very heavy); Magnetism: None; Fluorescence: None
Optical Properties
Opaque (no light transmission); high reflectivity; metallic luster; isotropic (singly refractive)
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Joplin, Missouri (USA), Morocco, and Peru; found in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary environments
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 2.5–2.75 (can be scratched by a copper coin); brittle toughness; low durability for jewelry
Care & Maintenance
Handle with care as it contains lead; wash hands after touching. Store in a dry place; clean only with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid acidic chemicals and ultrasonics
Rarity & Value
Common mineral; primary ore of lead. Value for specimens depends on crystal form and size; massive specimens like this are generally affordable collector pieces
Special Characteristics
Extremely high density (feels heavy for its size); perfect cubic cleavage blocks; often contains silver (Argentiferous Galena)
Lore & History
Used since ancient times as a source of lead and silver; ancient Egyptians used it as kohl (eyeliner). Traditionally associated with grounding and centering in mineral lore