mineral

Native metal specimen, likely galena or metallic slag

Probably galena (lead sulfide, PbS); identification is uncertain from the image alone

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Silver-gray metallic luster with rounded, pitted surfaces and apparent fractures. Galena has Mohs hardness 2.5–2.75, cubic crystals, perfect cubic cleavage, and very high specific gravity (~7.5); the smooth shape suggests tumbling or weathering.

Identified August 16, 2026More mineral →

Explore Native metal specimen, likely galena or metallic slag 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

Galena forms in hydrothermal veins and carbonate-replacement deposits, commonly with sphalerite and calcite. If this is slag or a manufactured metal piece, it is not a natural geological specimen; streak, density, and composition testing are needed.

Uses & applications

Galena is an important historical lead ore and silver source, but specimens are mainly collected; avoid prolonged handling or ingestion because lead-bearing material is toxic. Metallic slag has little collector or industrial value.

Geological facts

The unusually rounded form and bright, dull-silver surface are not diagnostic and could also indicate polished galena, lead-rich slag, or another metal-bearing mineral. A magnet test, streak test, specific-gravity measurement, and ideally XRF analysis would distinguish them.

Field identification & locations

Check whether it leaves a dark gray streak, feels unusually heavy, and shows cubic cleavage; galena is nonmagnetic. Common sources include Missouri, Illinois, Idaho, Peru, Mexico, and Australia.