MINIUM
Minium is a scarce lead oxide mineral (Pb3O4)
that generally forms red, powdery coatings in highly oxidized lead ore
deposits. It has a nonmetallic luster, a red color, orangish-yellow
streak, several directions of cleavage, is soft (H = 2.5 to 3), and has a high
specific gravity (due to the lead content). It typically occurs in
massive, earthy, or granular forms. It can also form fine, scale-like
crystal masses. Crystal faces and cleavage planes can be striated.
Minium
from Lake County, Colorado, USA (CSM # 53269, Colorado School of Mines Geology
Museum, Golden, Colorado, USA).
Minium
from the Stone Mine, Leadville District, Lake County, Colorado, USA (CSM #
4779, Colorado School of Mines Geology Museum, Golden, Colorado, USA).