mineral

Galena-bearing sulfide specimen

Galena (PbS), likely with sphalerite and/or pyrite gangue

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Metallic luster; dark gray to black, coarse crystalline and irregularly cleaved. Galena has Mohs hardness 2.5–2.75, cubic crystals and perfect cubic cleavage; specific gravity about 7.4–7.6. The image suggests associated pale quartz or carbonate and brassy sulfides, but exact minerals need testing.

Identified September 14, 2026More mineral →

Explore Galena-bearing sulfide specimen in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms in hydrothermal veins and replacement deposits, commonly with sphalerite, pyrite, chalcopyrite, quartz, and calcite. Specimen age depends on its ore deposit, commonly Paleozoic to Cenozoic.

Uses & applications

Galena is the principal lead ore and historically supplied silver; specimens are collected for their cubic crystals and high density. It is not suitable for jewelry or casual handling because lead-bearing dust is toxic.

Geological facts

A streak test would produce a dark lead-gray streak; freshly broken galena shows bright metallic faces and cubic cleavage. Avoid inhaling dust, washing hands after handling, and keep it away from children and pets.

Field identification & locations

Common in mining districts worldwide, including Missouri and Illinois, the U.S. Southwest, Peru, Mexico, Australia, and Europe. Confirm with unusually high density, cubic cleavage, streak, and ideally chemical or X-ray testing.