My Store
Wulfenite
Wulfenite
Couldn't load pickup availability
Add a classic Southwestern mineral to your collection with these vibrant Wulfenite specimens from Arizona. Known for its striking color and distinctive crystal shape, Wulfenite is one of the most recognizable and sought after lead minerals in the world.
Wulfenite is a lead molybdate mineral with the chemical formula PbMoO4. It typically forms in the oxidized zones of lead ore deposits, where primary lead minerals undergo chemical alteration through exposure to oxygen rich groundwater.
One of Wulfenite’s most distinctive features is its crystal habit. It commonly forms thin tabular crystals with square or rectangular outlines, often appearing as bright orange, red orange, or yellow plates perched on matrix rock. Its high luster and bold color make it a standout display mineral.
Wulfenite forms in the oxidized zone of hydrothermal lead deposits. When primary lead minerals such as galena break down through weathering and oxidation, molybdenum bearing fluids react with lead to crystallize Wulfenite.
Because it forms near the Earth’s surface in secondary mineral environments, Wulfenite crystals are often found associated with other oxidized lead minerals. Its presence can also serve as an indicator of molybdenum in ore systems.
Arizona is world famous for producing exceptional Wulfenite specimens, particularly from a few historic mining localities known for their richly colored crystals.
Use the dropdown menu to select from the available specimens listed below. Each piece is comes in a clear acrylic case that is approximately 1.25 inches x 1.25 inches x 1 inch.
Piece A
Locality: Rowley Mine
This specimen comes from the Rowley Mine in Gila Bend, Arizona. The Rowley Mine is known for producing sharp, well formed tabular Wulfenite crystals with vibrant orange coloration and strong luster.
Piece B
Locality: Red Cloud Mine
This specimen is from the Red Cloud Mine near Yuma, Arizona. The Red Cloud Mine is internationally recognized for producing some of the finest red to orange Wulfenite crystals ever discovered, often forming isolated, gemmy plates on contrasting matrix.
Piece C
Locality: Rowley Mine
Also sourced from the Rowley Mine in Gila Bend, this specimen showcases the classic Arizona Wulfenite crystal form and color that have made this locality highly regarded among collectors.
Share
