Spectacular Galena Crystal
Rare aesthetic specimen of galena with well-crystallized appearance of sharply developed octahedron and cubic crystals from Huanzala, Peru.
Size: 58 x 52 x 40 mm
Weight: 205 g
Rare aesthetic specimen of galena with well-crystallized appearance of sharply developed octahedron and cubic crystals from Huanzala, Peru.
Size: 58 x 52 x 40 mm
Weight: 205 g
Rare aesthetic specimen of galena with well-crystallized appearance of sharply developed octahedron and cubic crystals from Huanzala, Peru.
Size: 58 x 52 x 40 mm
Weight: 205 g
Galena is the most common ore of lead, and its chemical formula is PbS (lead sulfide). It is also known as lead glance. Galena is a major source of lead and has been used since ancient times.
Galena is known for its metallic luster, lead-gray color, and perfect cubic cleavage.
It is often well crystallized and forms in many interesting and distinct crystal shapes. Crystals may be cubes, octahedrons, or a combination of the two. Cubes are often partially cleaved. Dodecahedrons are far less common. Also occurs massive, grainy, fibrous, platy, as veins, and as cleavage fragments.
Huanzala is a lead-zinc mine with a 1,200 tons/day capacity, operated by Cia. Minera Santa Luisa and owned by Mitsui Mining & Smelting Co. (Japan). The mine is located in the Peruvian Department of Ancash a about 4000 meters of altitude.
How to take care of your Galena crystal:
Galena specimens must be taken care of more so than other minerals. They are easily damaged, and well-formed crystals may shatter into small crystal fragments if put under slight pressure or dropped, so care should be taken when handling and transporting Galena specimens. Over time, the luster turns duller, although still metallic. The tarnish can be removed by scrubbing the specimen with water and mild soap.