mineral

Galena

Lead(II) Sulfide (PbS)

Hardness: 2.5 on the Mohs scale; Color: Lead-gray to silver-blue; Luster: Bright metallic; Crystal structure: Cubic (Isometric); Cleavage: Perfect cubic in three directions; Specific gravity: 7.2–7.6 (very heavy/dense).

Hardness: 2
Color: Lead-gray to silver-blue
Luster: Bright metallic

Identified March 22, 2026More mineral →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed primarily in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary deposits through low to moderate temperature aqueous processes. It is often found associated with sphalerite, pyrite, and chalcopyrite.

Uses & applications

The primary ore of lead; also used as a source for silver. Historically used for cosmetic eyeliners (kohl) and as a semiconductor in early crystal radio sets.

Geological facts

Galena is one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulfide minerals. Because it's so heavy, even a small specimen like this feels surprisingly weighty in the hand. It often contains significant small amounts of silver as an impurity.

Field identification & locations

Identification: Look for the characteristic heavy weight (density), silver-gray metallic color, and perfect 90-degree cubic cleavage. Common locations: Missouri (USA), Kansas, Oklahoma, and parts of the UK. Tips for collectors: Do not ingest and wash hands after handling, as it contains lead.