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 — Pattersonite leaves grey, Galena leaves lead-gray.

How to tell apart: Streak differs — 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 — that is 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.