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Cerussite
Main Deposits
Morocco (Mibladen is the most famous), Namibia (Tsumeb), Australia, the United States and Spain.
Description and Characteristics
Cerussite is a lead carbonate that forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidation zones of lead deposits (mainly from galena). It belongs to the orthorhombic crystal system. It is renowned amongst collectors for its extremely high lustre (adamantine) and for forming ‘heart-shaped’ twinning or networks of interlocking crystals known as ‘reticulations’. Due to its high lead content, it is an exceptionally dense mineral.
| Chemical Formula | $$PbCO_3$$ |
|---|---|
| Luster | Vitreous, fatty, adamantine |
| Streak | White |
| Fracture | Conchoid |
| Cleavage | Good |
| Hardness | 3-3,5 Mohs |
| Crystal System | Orthorhombic |
Did you know...?
The name derives from the Latin word ‘cerussa’, which was the name given to a white pigment made from lead carbonate that was used in cosmetics in ancient times. Unfortunately, this make-up was highly toxic and caused serious damage to the health of those who used it to make their faces look paler.
New-Age Properties
Cerussite is considered a stone of alchemical transformation, helping one to feel "at home" anywhere and to adapt to life's inevitable changes.