Galena
Lead Sulfide · Mineral Specimen / Industrial Mineral (Primary ore of lead)
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); commonly occurs in cubes, octahedrons, or as massive, granular, or fibered aggregates.
Mineral Group
Sulfides (Galena group)
Chemical Formula
PbS with trace amounts of Ag, Sb, As, Cu (often argentiferous)
Formation Process
Hydrothermal mineralization in veins or as replacement deposits in limestone and dolostone (Mississippi Valley-type deposits).
About This Crystal
The specimen shows a characteristic metallic luster with a lead-gray color. It appears as a crystalline mass with numerous reflective micro-facets that suggest its cubic cleavage. The texture is granular and opaque with a bright, silvery-gray reflection upon light contact.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Lead gray; Streak: Lead gray; Cleavage: Perfect cubic (three directions at 90 degrees); Fracture: Subconchoidal or uneven; SG: 7.2–7.6; Fluorescence: None.
Optical Properties
Opaque; Metallic luster; No pleochroism or birefringence as it is isotropic (cubic). Indistinct dispersion.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Major deposits in Missouri (USA), Mexico, Morocco, Germany, and Peru. Typically found in hydrothermal veins.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 2.5; Brittle tenacity; High density makes it feel very heavy for its size. Low durability for jewelry.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a dry cloth or soft brush. Do not use ultrasonic cleaners. Wash hands after handling due to lead content. Store in a dry environment to prevent oxidation.
Rarity & Value
Common; Value is determined by crystal size, form (well-defined cubes are best), and matrix. Generally affordable as mineral specimens.
Special Characteristics
Known for its perfect cubic cleavage and high specific gravity. Often contains enough silver (argentiferous galena) to be mined as a silver ore.
Lore & History
Used since ancient times (Ancient Egypt) as 'kohl' for eye makeup. Symbolically used in modern crystal lore for grounding and centering the root chakra.