ID: 56
Chemical Formula
PbCO₃
Hardness (Mohs)
3 - 3.5
Crystal System
Orthorhombic
Streak
White
Luster
Adamantine, vitreous, or silky.
Diaphaneity
Transparent to translucent
Color
Typically colorless, white, or gray. Can also be pale yellow, green, or blue. Often adamantine (diamond-like) when colorless or white.
Crystal Habit / Mode of Occurrence
Commonly occurs as pseudohexagonal twins, also prismatic, tabular, pyramidal, and massive. Often reticulated (net-like) or in radiating groups.
Fun Facts
Its incredibly high lead content (over 77%) makes it very dense, and its often striking crystal forms, including reticulated (net-like) aggregates, are highly sought by collectors. Due to its high lead content, Cerussite has a high specific gravity (it feels quite heavy for its size). Its name comes from the Latin word "cerussa," meaning "white lead."