Galena

Real mineral · common · PbS

Lead sulfide and the primary ore of lead. Crystallises in perfect cubic forms with characteristic metallic sheen. Its high density and perfect cubic cleavage make it immediately recognisable in hand specimen.

Identity

Formula

PbS

Chemical class

sulfide

Also known as

Lead glance, Lead ore

Crystallography

Crystal system

cubic

Habits

cubic, octahedral, massive

Fracture

subconchoidal

Physical properties

Mohs hardness

2.5

Density

7.6 g/cm³

Luster

metallic

Colors

lead-gray, silver

Streak

lead-gray

Transparency

opaque

Geology

Origins

hydrothermal

Host rocks

limestone, dolomite, shale

Associated minerals

Sphalerite, Pyrite, Calcite, Barite

Geography

worldwide

Classification

Rarity

common

Gem quality

No

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