Cerussite
A species of Aragonite Group, Also known as White lead Ore, Black Lead Ore, Cerusite, White Lead Scientific name : Cerussite Mineral Group : Aragonite Group
Cerussite, A species of Aragonite Group
Also known as:
White lead Ore, Black Lead Ore, Cerusite, White Lead
Scientific name: Cerussite
Mineral Group: Aragonite Group
Content
Description People often ask General Info
Description
Cerussite, also known as "white lead," has been industrially mined for several centuries (lead has historically been used in a wide variety of industrial processes and alloys). It can crystalize into some truly striking forms. "Twined" specimens have crystals that appear to be interwoven, with empty space in between. Gemstone-quality crystals are rare, but breathtaking, such as the spectacular 898-carat "Light of the Desert" which was found in Namibia.
Physical Properties
Colors
Colourless, white, gray, blue, green, colourless in transmitted light
Luster
PearlyVitreousResinousAdamantineDull
Diaphaneity
TransparentToTranslucent
Refractive Index
1.803-2.078
Birefringence
0.274
Pleochroism
None
Dispersion
0.055
Optical Character
Biaxial negative
Chemical Properties
Chemical Classification
Carbonates
Formula
PbCO3
Elements listed
C, O, Pb
Common Impurities
None
People often ask
General Info
Healing Properties
Cerussite is believed to be a transformative stone that improves one's physical, emotional, and spiritual self. When worn, it is believed to make a person's aura brighter, giving them a feeling of hope and confidence. It is said to make a person more confident in decision making and allow them to see matters more clearly and rationally, rather than from an emotional aspect.
How to Select
Cerussite readily breaks under the pressure of cutting, so facetable versions of this gemstone are extremely rare and therefore valuable. They usually display excellent clarity and luster; it is uncommon to find this stone displaying a cat's-eye effect. The price of this gem depends heavily on the cost of cutting and its size. There are no known treatments for this gemstone or synthesized varieties for the jewelry market. An optic character reading can distinguish cerussite from similar stones and fakes.
Usage
Cerussite was once an important ore of lead used in paints and cosmetics, but its use was discontinued to to toxicity. It is also a popular gemstone among collectors. However, while it is a popular gemstone among collectors, it is too brittle to be worn as jewelry.
Types
A variety containing 7% of zinc carbonate, replacing lead carbonate, is known as iglesiasite, from Iglesias in Sardinia, where it is found.
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