mineral

Metallic sulfide-bearing rock, possibly galena-bearing ore

Probable galena (PbS) with pyrite and quartz/matrix; exact identification requires testing

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Irregular gray-brown specimen with bright metallic gray patches and granular pale matrix. Galena has Mohs hardness 2.5–2.75, cubic cleavage, metallic luster, and high specific gravity (~7.5); pyrite is harder (6–6.5) and brassy yellow.

Identified August 24, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Metallic sulfide-bearing rock, possibly galena-bearing ore
Scientific name: Probable galena (PbS) with pyrite and quartz/matrix; exact identification requires testing
Category: mineral
Identified: August 24, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $5–$25 for a small common specimen; attractive, well-crystallized or silver-rich pieces may sell for $50–$200+.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Likely hydrothermal sulfide ore formed when hot mineral-rich fluids deposited sulfides in veins or replacement zones, commonly in Paleozoic to younger ore systems; age cannot be determined from the image.

Uses & applications

Galena is an important historical lead ore and may contain silver; pyrite and quartz specimens are collected, while unprocessed material is not generally suitable for jewelry or construction.

Geological facts

Galena breaks into cubic fragments and leaves a dark gray streak; pyrite leaves a greenish-black streak and is much harder. Lead-bearing material should not be handled extensively, inhaled as dust, or used around food.

Field identification & locations

Commonly found in hydrothermal veins and carbonate-hosted deposits worldwide, including the United States, Mexico, Peru, Australia, and China. Confirm with streak, heft, cleavage, hardness, and professional XRF or mineral testing.