mineral

Galena

Lead(II) sulfide (PbS)

Hardness: 2.5–2.75 Mohs; Color: Lead gray to silver; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect cubic; Specific Gravity: 7.2–7.6 (extremely heavy for its size)

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

Identified April 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5–2.75 Mohs; Color: Lead gray to silver; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect cubic; Specific Gravity: 7.2–7.6 (extremely heavy for its size)

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins at medium to low temperatures. It also occurs in contact metamorphic deposits and as replacements in limestone and dolomite. It is found in deposits spanning from the Precambrian to recent eras.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of lead; used in batteries, lead shielding for X-ray protection, and historically in early radio crystal sets (cat's whisker detectors). Sometimes used in jewelry as marcasite-lookalikes, though lead toxicity limits this use.

Geological facts

Galena is the most important source of lead and often contains significant amounts of silver as an impurity. Because of its perfect cubic cleavage, it breaks into smaller cubes when struck. It was historically used in ancient Egypt as kohl (eye makeup).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unusually high weight (density), silver-metallic sheen, and cubic cleavage. It is commonly found in Missouri (USA), Mexico, and the UK. Collectors should handle with care and wash hands after touching due to the lead content.