Galena
Galena (Lead Sulfide) · Mineral Specimen / Industrial Mineral
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); typically cubes, octahedrons, or massive granular forms
Mineral Group
Sulfides
Chemical Formula
PbS with common inclusions of Ag (Silver)
Formation Process
Hydrothermal mineral occurring in veins or as replacement deposits in limestone and dolostone
About This Crystal
Lead-grey color with a bright metallic luster on fresh surfaces; opaque transparency with distinct cubic cleavage
Physical Characteristics
Lead-grey color, lead-grey streak, perfect cubic cleavage in three directions, subconchoidal fracture, 7.2-7.6 specific gravity, brittle tenacity, non-fluorescent
Optical Properties
Isotropic (singly refractive) due to cubic structure; metallic luster provides high surface reflectivity but no light transmission
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Missouri and Kansas (USA), Peru, Mexico, Bulgaria, and Germany; typically found in hydrothermal veins
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness 2.5 to 2.75; very soft and brittle; susceptible to scratching and impact damage
Care & Maintenance
Avoid skin contact due to lead content; wash hands after handling. Clean with dry soft cloth; avoid ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Store separately from hard stones
Rarity & Value
Common mineral; value determined by crystal size, sharp cubic geometry, and association with other minerals like Quartz or Sphalerite
Special Characteristics
High density (heavy for its size); often contains enough silver to be an ore of silver; perfect geometric cleavage fragments
Lore & History
Primary ore of lead used since Ancient Egypt for cosmetics (kohl) and Rome for plumbing; traditionally associated with grounding and centering in lore