mineral

Galena

Lead(II) sulfide (PbS)

Hardness: 2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Lead-gray to silver; Luster: Metallic; Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect cubic in three directions; Specific gravity: 7.2 to 7.6 (very heavy for its size)

Hardness: 2
Color: Lead-gray to silver
Luster: Metallic

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through hydrothermal processes, often found in hydrothermal veins and as replacement deposits in limestone and dolostone. It occurs in environments where sulfide-rich fluids circulate through host rock.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of lead, used in batteries, radiation shielding, and weights. Historically used in pigments and glaze. Of high interest to mineral collectors for its geometric crystal habits.

Geological facts

Galena is one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulfide minerals. It often contains significant amounts of silver as an impurity, making it an important ore for silver as well. It was used in early crystal radio sets as a semiconductor.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its high density (feels much heavier than it looks), bright metallic luster, and its characteristic cubic cleavage (it breaks into small cubes). It leaves a lead-gray streak when rubbed on a porcelain plate.