Galena vs Stibnite
| Property | Galena | Stibnite |
|---|---|---|
| Fórmula | PbS | Sb2S3 |
| Sistema Cristalino | Cubic (Isometric) | N/A |
| Classe Mineral | 02 Sulfides and Sulfosalts | N/A |
| Dureza Mohs | 2.5-2.8 | N/A |
| Cor | Lead-gray | N/A |
| Brilho | Metallic | N/A |
| Traço | Lead-gray | N/A |
| Transparência | Opaque | N/A |
| Clivagem | Perfect cubic {001} | N/A |
| Fratura | Subconchoidal | N/A |
Key Differences
- ◆ Galena is cubic (PbS) with perfect cubic cleavage; stibnite is orthorhombic (Sb2S3) with perfect prismatic cleavage.
- ◆ Both have lead-gray color and metallic luster, but stibnite forms long striated blade-like crystals.
- ◆ Galena is the principal lead ore; stibnite is the principal antimony ore.
- ◆ Stibnite has a lower specific gravity (4.5–4.6) than galena (7.4–7.6).
- ◆ Stibnite can be softened in a match flame; galena cannot.