galena

Galena, the natural mineral form of lead sulfide (PbS), is the most important ore of lead and the most widely mined lead mineral. It commonly forms cubic or octahedral crystals with a lead-gray to silver-gray color and a brilliant metallic luster. The mineral has a relatively low hardness of 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale and a high specific gravity of about 7.4–7.6, making it noticeably dense. A characteristic feature is its perfect cubic cleavage and often striated cube faces.

Galena crystallizes in the isometric system and occurs in hydrothermal veins, skarn deposits, and replacement bodies, as well as in sedimentary rocks where lead-bearing fluids have migrated and deposited PbS, frequently alongside sphalerite, calcite, quartz, and siderite.

Economically, galena is the principal ore of lead and is mined worldwide. The ore is processed to produce lead metal and various lead compounds; lead is widely used in batteries, shielding for radiation, and alloys, among other applications. The ore may also contain trace impurities such as silver, which can be recovered as a byproduct.

Because galena contains lead, handling and processing require appropriate safety measures to avoid inhalation of dust and exposure to ingested materials. Environmental and health considerations are important in mining and processing operations. Galena has a wide distribution in many geological settings, with notable occurrences in various regions around the world.