Galena
Lead Sulfide var. Galena · Mineral Specimen / Industrial Ore
Crystal System
Cubic (Isometric); habit is typically cubic, octahedral, or massive granular as seen in this specimen
Mineral Group
Sulfides (Galena Group)
Chemical Formula
PbS with possible traces of Silver (Ag), Antimony (Sb), or Selenium (Se)
Formation Process
Hydrothermal formation in medium-to-low temperature veins; also occurs as replacements in limestone and dolostone
About This Crystal
A dense, metallic mineral with a distinct lead-gray color. The specimen has a dull to moderately bright metallic luster on fresh surfaces, appearing opaque with a granular, slightly weathered texture.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Lead-gray; Streak: Lead-gray to black; Cleavage: Perfect cubic (three directions); Fracture: Subconchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 7.2–7.6 (very heavy for its size); Magnetism: Non-magnetic; Fluorescence: None
Optical Properties
Opaque (does not transmit light); metallic luster; non-refractive in the standard sense due to opacity; high reflectivity
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Commonly found in Missouri (USA), Morocco, Bulgaria, and the United Kingdom (Derbyshire)
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness: 2.5; very soft and brittle; high density makes it feel heavy, but it is easily scratched by a copper penny
Care & Maintenance
Wash hands after handling due to lead content; clean only with soft brush and dry cloth; avoid acids; store in a dry environment to prevent oxidation
Rarity & Value
Common mineral; value is generally low for massive specimens, though well-formed cubic crystals have higher collector value; primarily valued as the chief ore of lead
Special Characteristics
Known for its exceptionally high lead content and perfect cubic cleavage; often argentiferous (bearing silver), which makes it a secondary source of silver
Lore & History
Historically used in Ancient Egypt for eye makeup (kohl) and by early civilizations for plumbing and smelting; traditionally associated with grounding and protection in metaphysical lore