Wulfenite

Scientific Name: Lead molybdate

Group: Molybdates

Chemical composition: PbMoO4

Colors: Yellow, orange, red

Hardness: 2.5 to 3

Formation: Tetragonal crystals; Square tabular and prismatic form

Principal Sources: Mexico; Slovenia; Zambia; China; Arizona, USA

Special Notes: Wulfenite is named for Franz Xavier von Wulfen, an Austrian mineralogist. It is found in many localities, associated with lead ores as a secondary mineral associated with the oxidized zone of lead deposits. It is also a secondary ore of molybdenum, and is sought by collectors. Arizona is a key locality for fine wulfenite crystals.