Clausthalite
A variety of Minerals
What is Clausthalite?
Clausthalite is a lead selenide mineral, PbSe. It forms a solid solution series with galena PbS.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Clausthalite before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Clausthalite Localities Map
See where Clausthalite is found with a localities map, collecting zones, and geology context. Generate a sample map preview below.
Key Characteristics
Formation of Clausthalite
It occurs in low-sulfur hydrothermal deposits with other selenides and in mercury deposits. It is associated with tiemannite, klockmannite, berzelianite, umangite, gold, stibiopalladinite and uraninite. It was first described in 1832 and named for the discovery locality of Clausthal-Zellerfeld in the Harz Mountains, Germany.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Bluish grey to lead-grey
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2.5 - 3
- Density
- 8.275 g/cm³
- Streak
- Grey-black
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- PbSe
- Elements
- Pb, Se
Also Known As
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Clausthalite FAQs
How do I identify Clausthalite?
Clausthalite can be identified by its hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale, Bluish grey to lead-grey color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Clausthalite?
Clausthalite typically appears in Bluish grey to lead-grey. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Clausthalite?
Clausthalite has a hardness of 2.5 - 3 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
What is the formation of clausthalite of Clausthalite?
It occurs in low-sulfur hydrothermal deposits with other selenides and in mercury deposits. It is associated with tiemannite, klockmannite, berzelianite, umangite, gold, stibiopalladinite and uraninite. It was first described in 1832 and named for the discovery locality of Clausthal-Zellerfeld in the Harz Mountains, Germany.
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