Mineral Species: Cerussite
Chemical Formula: PbCO3
Chemical Name: Lead Carbonate
Mineral Class: Carbonate
Mineral Notes: Cerussite is often called white lead ore. Its properties are nearly identical to Witherite, but the mineral has the highest specific gravity of any carbonate. The mineral was once used extensively used in the manufacture of paint due to its intense white colouration. However, the paint's toxicity led to substitution by other far less poisonous pigments.
Description: Thin, elongated crystals of white Cerrusite, having the rare form known as Jackstraw Cerrusite. The needles are clustered together at one of a dark matrix which provides the ideal contrast to show these crystals. The mineral has a very bright pearly luster which also adds to its aesthetic appeal. Otherwise, this is an oportunity to obtain a Cornish mineral classic.
Location: Pentire Glaze Mine, Polzeath, Cornwall, England. (Collected in 1993).
