What is Wulfenite?
Wulfenite is a brilliant lead molybdate famous for thin orange, red or yellow tabular crystals from oxidised lead deposits.
Mineralogy and structure
Reference formula: PbMoO4. Wulfenite is tetragonal with the ideal formula PbMoO4. The existing published page and structure are preserved; the guide is refreshed without creating a duplicate. Wulfenite is classified with molybdates and has tetragonal crystal symmetry. Typical hardness is 2.5–3 on the Mohs scale and specific gravity is approximately 6.5–7.0.
Colour, lustre and habit
Typical colours include orange, orange-red, yellow, brown, colourless. The usual tabular, pyramidal, granular habit and adamantine, resinous, vitreous lustre help describe a specimen, but colour alone is not diagnostic.
Formation and notable localities
Wulfenite forms in or is associated with secondary oxidation zones of lead deposits, especially in arid mine districts and carbonate-hosted veins. Important documented localities include Arizona and New Mexico in the United States, Mexico, Morocco, Namibia, Austria and Australia.
The orange tabular classic of the mineral cabinet
Wulfenite remains one of the strongest W sales minerals because colour, lustre, thin crystal geometry and famous localities combine into an instantly recognisable specimen.
Collecting and care
Very soft, dense and lead-bearing: protect thin plates from impact and scratches, avoid acids and dust, and wash hands after handling.
