Galena is the main ore of lead, and the most abundant mineral containing lead. It is a sulfide mineral that can also contain silver, copper, zinc, and other metals. Galena is usually found in hydrothermal veins, sedimentary rocks, and metamorphic rocks.
Cerussite is a carbonate mineral that forms from the weathering of galena or other lead-bearing minerals. It is a common secondary ore of lead, and can contain up to 77.5% lead by mass. Cerussite is often associated with oxidized zones of lead deposits, and can form crystals, fibrous masses, or earthy coatings.
Anglesite is another carbonate mineral that results from the oxidation of galena or other lead sulfides. It is a minor ore of lead, and can contain up to 74% lead by mass. Anglesite is typically found in the upper parts of lead deposits, and can form prismatic crystals, massive aggregates, or pseudomorphs after galena.
Sphalerite is the main ore of zinc, but it often contains traces of lead and other metals. It is a sulfide mineral that can vary in color from black to yellow to brown. Sphalerite is a common mineral in many types of ore deposits, and can form crystals, cleavable masses, or granular aggregates.
Pyrite is a sulfide mineral that is also known as fool's gold. It can contain minor amounts of lead and other metals, as well as arsenic, nickel, and cobalt. Pyrite is widespread in many environments, and can form cubic crystals, radiating clusters, or concretionary masses.