Piemontite-(Pb) is a rare lead-bearing member of the epidote group, typically appearing as distinct reddish-brown prismatic crystals or compact masses. It is primarily found in complex metamorphic manganese deposits, most notably in the Långban district of Sweden. Collectors prize it for its deep coloration and unique lead-rich chemical signature.

Hardness

6-6.5

Mohs

Luster

Vitreous

Streak

Reddish

Transparency

Translucent

mineralrareEpidote Group family

Piemontite-(Pb)

Hardness: 6-6.5
Luster: Vitreous
Streak: Reddish
Transparency: Translucent

Is this piemontite-(pb)?

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 piemontite-(pb) with a known reference. Piemontite-(Pb) sits at Mohs 6-6.5 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Piemontite-(Pb) leaves a reddish streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Piemontite-(Pb) typically shows a vitreous luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: red, reddish-brown, dark red.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: monoclinic. Typical habit: prismatic crystals, radial aggregates, massive.

Often confused with

Piemontite-(Pb) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

mineral

Piemontite

Mohs 6-6.5

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Piemontite-(Pb) leaves reddish, Piemontite leaves reddish-brown.

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Piemontite-(Pb) leaves reddish, Epidote leaves white.

How to tell apart: Streak differs — Piemontite-(Pb) leaves reddish, Allanite leaves gray; luster reads vitreous on Piemontite-(Pb) and submetallic on Allanite.

Compare →

Often found alongside piemontite-(pb)

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

All properties

Chemical formula: CaPbAl₂Mn³⁺(Si₂O₇)(SiO₄)O(OH)
Mohs hardness: 6-6.5
Density: 4.5-4.6 g/cm³
Colors: Red Reddish-brown Dark Red
Streak: Reddish
Luster: Vitreous
Transparency: Translucent
Crystal system: Monoclinic
Crystal habit: Prismatic Crystals, Radial Aggregates, Massive
Cleavage: Perfect
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Metamorphosed Manganese-rich Iron Ores
Typical price: $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity

Where rockhounds find piemontite-(pb)

Classic worldwide localities

Jakobsberg Mine, Sweden
Långban, Sweden

Field-hunting tip

Look in metamorphosed manganese-rich iron ores country — that is the host setting where piemontite-(pb) typically forms. If you start seeing hausmannite, baryte, calcite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a prismatic crystals, radial aggregates, massive habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify piemontite-(pb)?+

Mohs hardness is 6-6.5. It typically shows a vitreous luster. The streak is reddish. Common colors include red, reddish-brown, dark red.

Where is piemontite-(pb) found?+

Notable localities include Jakobsberg Mine, Sweden; Långban, Sweden.

How much is piemontite-(pb) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 depending on specimen size and clarity. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is piemontite-(pb) safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains lead, which is toxic if ingested or inhaled as dust; wash hands thoroughly after handling and avoid creating dust when breaking specimens. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like piemontite-(pb)?+

Piemontite-(Pb) is most often confused with Piemontite, Epidote, Allanite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with piemontite-(pb)?+

Piemontite-(Pb) commonly co-occurs with Hausmannite, Baryte, Calcite. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does piemontite-(pb) form in?+

Piemontite-(Pb) typically forms in metamorphosed manganese-rich iron ores. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is piemontite-(pb) used for?+

Piemontite-(Pb) is used in collector.

Find piemontite-(pb) on the map

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