Mineral Species: Galena and Silver

Chemical Formula: PbS

Chemical Name: Lead Sulphide

Mineral Class: Sulphide

Mineral Notes: Galena is one of the most abundant and widely distributed sulfides. It is the main ore of lead and frequently contains valuable amounts of Silver and occasionally Zinc.

Description: A specimen mostly composed of massive argentiferous Galena. However some distinct crystal faces are apparent, especially at the side of the specimen. The Galena is very lustrous and untarnished. When viewed form some angles a very distinct bluish colour undertone can be seen. This is evidence for the silver content and was used by early miners as a visual test for this precious metal.

Location: Mary Tavy Mine, Tavistock, Devon, England.