mineral
Galena with Pyrite on Matrix
Lead(II) sulfide (PbS) with Iron disulfide (FeS2)
Hardness: 2.5 (Galena) / 6.0 (Pyrite); Color: Lead-gray to silvery (Galena), brassy yellow (Pyrite); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect cubic
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Lead-gray to silvery (Galena), brassy yellow (Pyrite)
- Luster
- Metallic
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5 (Galena) / 6.0 (Pyrite); Color: Lead-gray to silvery (Galena), brassy yellow (Pyrite); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect cubic
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins and replacement deposits in limestone and dolostone. Often associated with volcanic activity or deep-seated hydrothermal fluids.
Uses & applications
Galena is the primary ore for lead; it used to be a source of silver as well. Pyrite is used in battery production and jewelry (marcasite). This specimen is primarily for mineral collecting.
Geological facts
Galena is one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulfide minerals. It often contains significant amounts of silver as an impurity, making it an argentiferous galena.
Field identification & locations
Identified in the field by its high specific gravity (feels very heavy for its size), distinct metallic luster, and perfect cubic cleavage that creates shiny, stair-step fractures.
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