mineral

Galena

Lead(II) sulfide (PbS)

Hardness: 2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Lead gray; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect cubic in three directions; Specific Gravity: 7.4-7.6 (very heavy)

Hardness: 2
Color: Lead gray
Luster: Metallic

Identified June 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Lead gray; Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect cubic in three directions; Specific Gravity: 7.4-7.6 (very heavy)

Formation & geological history

Commonly formed in hydrothermal veins, often associated with zinc minerals in limestone or dolostone. It can form in sedimentary deposits or through replacement in metamorphic environments.

Uses & applications

Primary ore of lead; used in batteries, solder, x-ray shielding, and historically in early radio receivers (crystal radios).

Geological facts

Galena is one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulfide minerals. It often contains significant amounts of silver as impurities, making it an important silver ore as well.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its high density (feels heavy for its size), bright metallic gray color, and cubical cleavage fragments. Common in places like Missouri (USA), Cornwall (UK), and Mexico.