mineral

Galena in Quartz Matrix

Lead Sulfide (PbS) in Silicon Dioxide (SiO2)

Hardness: 2.5 (Galena) to 7 (Quartz); Color: Lead-gray metallic (galena) and white/clear (quartz); Luster: Metallic to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect cubic.

Hardness: 2
Color: Lead-gray metallic (galena) and white/clear (quartz)
Luster: Metallic to vitreous

Identified June 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5 (Galena) to 7 (Quartz); Color: Lead-gray metallic (galena) and white/clear (quartz); Luster: Metallic to vitreous; Crystal Structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect cubic.

Formation & geological history

Formed in hydrothermal veins through the precipitation of minerals from hot, metal-rich fluids in cooling magma or deep crustal environments.

Uses & applications

Galena is the primary ore of lead and a significant source of silver; quartz is used in electronics and glass. As a specimen, it is valued by collectors.

Geological facts

Galena was used as a semiconductor in early crystal radio receivers. It is one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulfide minerals.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high specific gravity (it feels very heavy), bright metallic luster on fresh surfaces, and characteristic cubic cleavage. Found in lead-zinc deposits worldwide.

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