Occurs in Pinal County. Common in Arizona.
Chemical Formula: PbSO4
Specific Gravity: 6.3-6.4
Luster: Adamantine to resinous
Hardness: 2.5-3
Anglesite is a lead-bearing mineral composed of lead sulfate. It forms as a secondary mineral in the oxidized zones of lead ore deposits and is known for its distinctive crystal shapes and bright luster. While of interest to mineral collectors, its lead content requires proper handling and consideration of potential health and environmental impacts.
Next Pinal County mineral: Anhydrite
Anglesite is a mineral that is primarily composed of lead sulfate (PbSO4). It is named after its distinct and often characteristic angles between crystal faces. Anglesite is a secondary mineral that forms as a result of the oxidation of primary lead sulfide minerals, such as galena (PbS). It is often found in the oxidized zones of lead ore deposits.
The chemical formula for anglesite is PbSO4, indicating its composition of lead (Pb), sulfur (S), and oxygen (O). Anglesite crystals typically have a prismatic or tabular shape and can vary in color, ranging from colorless to gray, yellow, brown, or green.
Anglesite is notable for its relatively high density and its bright, glassy luster. It has good transparency, allowing light to pass through the crystals, and it can sometimes display interesting twinning patterns.
This mineral often forms as a result of the weathering and oxidation of primary lead sulfide minerals. In areas with lead ore deposits, groundwater containing dissolved oxygen can react with galena or other lead-bearing minerals, resulting in the formation of anglesite along with other secondary minerals. Anglesite is commonly found in the oxidized zones of lead ore deposits, where it can occur as crusts, coatings, or individual crystals.
Due to its lead content, anglesite is considered a lead-bearing mineral, and exposure to its dust or particles should be minimized to prevent health risks. In mining contexts, anglesite and other lead minerals can pose environmental challenges due to their potential to leach lead into groundwater.