Mineral of the Month: Galena
by Joshua Taylor
Galena is a lead-based sulfide that forms cubic-shaped crystals. It is one of the most abundant sources of lead out of any other mineral and has been mined for centuries. While placed low on the hardness level, it has a high specific gravity, and can be easily identified due to its metallic and opaque luster. It is mined all across the globe; in the US it can be found in states like Wisconsin or Minnesota where mines were established to harvest the lead ore. It can form as a stand alone mineral or even as a secondary formation within other minerals such as Fluorite, Quartz, Calcite, and more. While in the past it was used for coins and bullets, today it is used in all sorts of electronics like batteries, cars, TVs, and computers. Many pieces display an array of cubic formations - do note that this is made up of lead and can cause lead poisoning over time if mishandled. While it can be dangerous if mishandled and shows no vibrant color on its own, it can still be a stunning piece in any collection.
(n.d.). “Galena.” University of Minnesota. https://commonminerals.esci.umn.edu/minerals-g-m/galena
by Joshua Taylor
Galena is a lead-based sulfide that forms cubic-shaped crystals. It is one of the most abundant sources of lead out of any other mineral and has been mined for centuries. While placed low on the hardness level, it has a high specific gravity, and can be easily identified due to its metallic and opaque luster. It is mined all across the globe; in the US it can be found in states like Wisconsin or Minnesota where mines were established to harvest the lead ore. It can form as a stand alone mineral or even as a secondary formation within other minerals such as Fluorite, Quartz, Calcite, and more. While in the past it was used for coins and bullets, today it is used in all sorts of electronics like batteries, cars, TVs, and computers. Many pieces display an array of cubic formations - do note that this is made up of lead and can cause lead poisoning over time if mishandled. While it can be dangerous if mishandled and shows no vibrant color on its own, it can still be a stunning piece in any collection.
(n.d.). “Galena.” University of Minnesota. https://commonminerals.esci.umn.edu/minerals-g-m/galena
Galena
Locality: Tristate Region Joshua Taylor Collection |
Galena with Pyrite and Quartz
Locality: Naica, Mexico Joshua Taylor Collection |