Galena
Lead Sulfide, PbS
Crystal System: Cubic
Hardness: 2.5-2.8
Density: 7.2-7.6

Galena is widely distributed and the main ore mineral of lead. It typically occurs in hydrothermal deposits and pegmatites where it is associated with bournonite, sphalerite, argentite, chalcopyrite, and tetrahedrite, and with gangue minerals such as fluorite, quartz, dolomite, barite, and calcite. Galena also occurs in metamorphic and sedimentary deposits. It occurs as columnar replacements in limestones and dolomites.

Galena crystals are most frequently found as compact and granular masses. They are also common as cubic crystals, with octahedral forms being rarer. Galena crystals typically exhibit an opaque lead grey color with a bright metallic luster, which may darken or blacken over time due to the oxidation of lead.

Rocks from Bob's Collection

Index of Specimen Images

Table of Contents

bkeller@rockhounds.com 11/23/95