mineral
Galena (lead sulfide)
Galena, PbS
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectMetallic lead-gray color and bright luster; cubic crystal system with perfect cubic cleavage. Mohs hardness 2.5; unusually high specific gravity, about 7.4–7.6. The photo shows a gray, lustrous specimen, though identification from appearance alone is uncertain.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Galena (lead sulfide) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Metallic lead-gray color and bright luster; cubic crystal system with perfect cubic cleavage. Mohs hardness 2.5; unusually high specific gravity, about 7.4–7.6. The photo shows a gray, lustrous specimen, though identification from appearance alone is uncertain.
Formation & geological history
Forms in hydrothermal veins and sedimentary replacement deposits, commonly with sphalerite, calcite, or fluorite. Deposits span a wide range of geological ages.
Uses & applications
Historically the chief ore of lead, used in batteries, radiation shielding, and alloys; attractive crystals are collected. Lead minerals require careful handling and should not be cut or ground at home.
Geological facts
Galena’s high density and cubic cleavage are distinctive; some specimens contain recoverable silver.
Field identification & locations
Check for exceptional heft, metallic gray color, and cleavage into cubic fragments; avoid scratch or dust tests because of lead toxicity. Found in mining districts worldwide, including the United States, Australia, and Europe.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Gneiss or Schist
Gneiss or Mica Schist with Garnet
Metamorphic
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Tumbled granite
Granite, a coarse-grained felsic intrusive igneous rock
igneous
Pegmatite with Tourmaline and Quartz
Igneous Pegmatite
igneous
Epidote
Epidote | Ca2(Al2,Fe3+)(SiO4)(Si2O7)O(OH)
metamorphic
Granite
Granite (Phaneritic intrusive igneous rock)
igneous