Pattersonite is a rare lead-iron sulfide that occurs as a rare local variation within basalt cavities. It is visually indistinguishable from massive galena to the naked eye and typically requires chemical analysis or X-ray diffraction for definitive identification.

Hardness

2.5-3

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Grey

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareGalena Group family

Pattersonite

Hardness: 2.5-3
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Grey
Transparency: Opaque

Is this pattersonite?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch pattersonite with a known reference. Pattersonite sits at Mohs 2.5-3, softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Pattersonite leaves a grey streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Pattersonite typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: gray, silver-white.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: massive, granular.

Often confused with

Pattersonite vs. its common look-alikes, and how to tell them apart in the field.

mineral

Galena

Mohs 2.5

How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Pattersonite leaves grey, Galena leaves lead-gray.

How to tell apart: Streak differs, so Pattersonite leaves grey, Altaite leaves black.

Compare →

Often found alongside pattersonite

Minerals reported to co-occur with pattersonite. Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: (Pb,Fe)S
Mohs hardness: 2.5-3
Density: 7.3-7.5 g/cm³
Colors: Gray Silver-white
Streak: Grey
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Massive, Granular
Cleavage: Perfect Cubic
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Basaltic Traps
Typical price: $50-300 per specimen

Where rockhounds find pattersonite

Classic worldwide localities

Patterson, New Jersey, USA

Field-hunting tip

Look in basaltic traps country, the host setting where pattersonite typically forms. If you start seeing prehnite, datolite, calcite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a massive, granular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify pattersonite?+

Mohs hardness is 2.5-3. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is grey. Common colors include gray, silver-white.

Where is pattersonite found?+

Notable localities include Patterson, New Jersey, USA.

How much is pattersonite worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-300 per specimen. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is pattersonite safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid inhaling dust or powder. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like pattersonite?+

Pattersonite is most often confused with Galena, Altaite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with pattersonite?+

Pattersonite commonly co-occurs with Prehnite, Datolite, Calcite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does pattersonite form in?+

Pattersonite typically forms in basaltic traps. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is pattersonite used for?+

Pattersonite is used in collector.

Find pattersonite on the map

RockHoundR shows mapped rockhounding spots, access rules, and lets you log every find.