2.5" Cerussite Crystal with Bladed Barite & Galena- Morocco

This specimen is contains faint-yellow, translucent cerussite crystals, formed from a galena rich matrix, beneath. The largest cerussite crystal measures .32" long. Red-orange and white clusters of bladed barite can also be found perched atop this cluster of crystals.

Under UV lighting, the cerussite crystals fluoresce a vibrant yellow color.

Cerussite is a lead-carbonate mineral with the chemical formula PbCO3, and is an important ore of lead. It is a common weathering product of galena, explaining why it is typically extracted from oxidized zones of lead ore deposits. It can form into a variety of different structures, sometimes in fibrous patterns and other times in granular aggregations, though it generally forms vitreous pseudo-hexagonal crystals. Its colors vary depending on composition and structure: it is most commonly colorless, white, grey and green-tinted.

Barite, commonly spelled baryte, is well-known for its great range of colors and varied crystal forms and habits. = It is a heavy mineral consisting of barium sulfate, and typically has the chemical formula of BaSO4. The barite group consists of baryte, celestine, anglesite, and anhydrite. It is generally white to colorless and is the main source of barium.

Galena is a lead-based mineral and the primary ore of lead, and has been used for its lead content for thousands of years. Galena typically displays a gray metallic luster and forms cubes or octahedral crystals. The chemical composition of galena is PbS.

While galena will not pose a health hazard by sitting on the shelf or even from casual handling, we suggest washing hands following handling due to the mineral's lead content.
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DETAILS
SPECIES
Cerussite, Barite & Galena
LOCATION
Mibladen, Morocco
SIZE
2.5 x 1.9"
CATEGORY
ITEM
#107894