Cambridge Encyclopedia :: Cambridge Encyclopedia Vol. 28

galena

A lead sulphide (PbS) mineral, with very dense, dark-grey crystals. It is an important source of lead.

Galena
Galena (Lead sulfide) from Galena, Kansas, USA
General
Category Mineral
Chemical formula lead sulfide (PbS)
Identification
Colour Lead gray, silvery
Crystal habit Cubes, tabular and sometimes skeletal crystals
Crystal system Isometric hexoctahedral
Cleavage Cubic
Fracture Flat (when cubic) to even
Mohs Scale hardness 2.5 - 2.75
Luster Metallic
Refractive index Opaque
Pleochroism None
Streak Lead gray
Specific gravity 7.4 - 7.6
Fusibility 2

Galena is the natural mineral form of lead sulfide.

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