Galena (Lead sulfide) is a primary mineral (a mineral that forms by the combinations of elements rather than by alterations of a mineral) and the main ore of Lead. It is often well crystallized and forms in diverse and distinct crystal shapes. Its color is silver-gray to lead gray, sometimes with a bluish tint, exhibits a metallic luster, has distinctive cubic cleavage, and is very heavy. All of this makes it easy to identify and a favorite of collectors. It is associated with numerous minerals, including Sphalerite, Quartz, Calcite, Chalcopyrite, Pyrite and Fluorite.

The crystal system for Galena is isometric, forming cubic, octahedral and cubo-octahedral crystals. Other forms include granular, fibrous, platy, in veins, cleavable masses and massive.

Galena is a common mineral worldwide. Notable localities for quality specimens include Bulgaria, England, Germany, Kosovo, Mexico, Romania and the USA (Colorado, Idaho, the tri-state mining district; Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma).