Image: <bdi><a href="https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q56247090" class="extiw" title="d:Q56247090"><span title="mineral collector and dealer">Robert M. Lavinsky</span></a></bdi> (CC BY-SA 3.0)
orthorhombicuncommoncarbonates
Cerussite
PbCO₃
This specimen features delicate, reticulated (net-like) cerussite crystals, appearing translucent white to light gray, growing on a matrix.
Cerussite Physical Properties
Mohs Hardness
3Crystal System
orthorhombicLuster
adamantineStreak Color
whiteCleavage
distinct on {110} and {021}, poor on {010}Fracture
conchoidalSpecific Gravity
6.55Colors
colorless, white, gray, yellow, brownTransparency
transparentType Locality
Tsumeb, Otjikoto (Oshikoto) Region, NamibiaMineral Group
carbonatesUses
lead ore, collector, gemstone (rarely)Associated Minerals
galena, anglesite, malachite, azurite, smithsoniteRarity
uncommonGeological Context
Cerussite is a secondary mineral formed in the oxidized zone of lead ore deposits, typically resulting from the alteration of primary lead minerals like galena by carbonic acid-rich waters.
