2.1" Polished Schalenblende Cabochon - Poland

Schalenblende is a compact mass of sulfides that can consist of galena, pyrite, wurtzite, marcasite, and even sphalerite. It forms in concentric layers, and is believed to have formed by means of crystallization from a sulfide gel.

Galena is a lead-based mineral and the primary ore of lead: it 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 lead content of the mineral.