Galena & Pyrite Mineral Specimen | Greystone Quarry, Cornwall

Specimen Description

A striking natural Galena and Pyrite mineral specimen from Greystone Quarry, Cornwall, displaying an impressive combination of metallic silver-grey crystals, golden mineralisation and contrasting white crystalline material.

Weighing 325g, this substantial specimen features a predominantly metallic surface, with highly reflective galena displaying angular formations and characteristic stepped cleavage faces.

Brassy golden pyrite is scattered throughout the specimen, creating beautiful flashes of colour against the cool silver-grey galena. Patches of white crystalline material provide further contrast, while natural fractures and uneven surfaces preserve its raw geological character.

Viewed from different angles, the specimen reveals intricate intergrowths, brilliant metallic reflections and variations in crystal texture. Its dramatic appearance makes it a wonderful addition to a collection of British minerals.

About the Minerals

Galena

Galena (PbS) is a naturally occurring lead sulphide mineral and the principal ore of lead. Recognised for its brilliant metallic lustre, silver-grey colour and characteristic cubic cleavage, galena has been an important mineral throughout mining history.

Its crystal structure belongs to the cubic system, and its perfect cleavage can produce the distinctive stepped and block-like surfaces visible in natural specimens.

Pyrite

Pyrite (FeS₂) is an iron sulphide mineral commonly known as Fool's Gold because of its distinctive brass-yellow metallic colour.

Pyrite frequently occurs alongside other sulphide minerals in hydrothermal deposits, where mineral-rich fluids circulate through fractures and cavities within rock.

The combination of galena and pyrite creates a particularly attractive mineral association, bringing together contrasting metallic colours and crystal structures.

Mine History & Heritage

Greystone Quarry is located near Lezant in eastern Cornwall, a region with a rich geological and industrial heritage.

Cornwall is internationally recognised for its historic mining industry, particularly the extraction of tin and copper. However, the county's diverse geology also contains lead, zinc, iron and numerous other mineral deposits.

The formation of mineral veins and associated sulphide deposits is closely connected to the geological processes that shaped Cornwall over millions of years.

This specimen is attributed to Greystone Quarry, connecting it to the wider mineralogical heritage of Cornwall and the geological environments that produced its remarkable variety of minerals.

Locality information is based on the supplied specimen attribution. The extraction date and individual collection history have not been independently verified.

Intention & Chakras

Within traditional crystal practices, galena is associated with grounding, stability and reflection, while pyrite is associated with confidence, determination and protection.

• Galena: Grounding, stability and balance.
• Pyrite: Confidence, motivation and protection.
• Associated Chakras: Root Chakra and Solar Plexus Chakra.

These associations reflect traditional spiritual beliefs and are not scientifically established properties.

Shape Symbolism

This specimen retains its natural, unpolished formation, displaying the irregular surfaces and distinctive crystalline structures created through geological processes.

Raw mineral specimens are traditionally associated with authenticity, connection to the natural world and appreciation of the Earth's geological history.

Specimen Details

• Minerals: Galena and Pyrite
• Chemical Formulas: PbS and FeS₂
• Locality: Greystone Quarry, Lezant, Cornwall, England
• Formation: Natural mineral specimen
• Colour: Metallic silver-grey, brassy gold and white
• Weight: 325g
• Dimensions: Approximately 62.9mm × 51.8mm
• Finish: Natural, unpolished
• Quantity: One individual specimen

You will receive the exact specimen photographed.

Care & Safety

Galena contains lead and should be handled with appropriate care. This specimen is intended for display and mineral collection purposes only. Wash hands after handling, avoid generating dust and keep away from children and pets. Do not use in drinking water, crystal elixirs or aquariums.

Sources & References

• Mindat – Galena – Mineral composition, crystallography and physical characteristics.
• Mindat – Pyrite – Mineral composition and geological occurrence.
• British Geological Survey – Geological information and resources relating to Cornwall and British mineral deposits.
• Cornwall Heritage Trust – Historical context relating to Cornwall's mining and industrial heritage.