Information about Wulfenite

Appearance

It can be used as either an ore of lead or molybdenum, and is also prized by collectors.

Uses and History

It can be used as either an ore of lead or molybdenum, and is also prized by collectors.

It was originally described in 1772 by Ignaz von Born, as plumbum spatosum flavo-rubrum, and later renamed in 1781 to Kärntherischer bleispath.

It was finally renamed in 1845 and named after Franz Xavier von Wulfen, an Austrian mineralogist.

Mineralogy

Hazards and Warnings

Toxic, contains lead and molybdenum.

Mineral collectors should wash their hands after handling specimens, to avoid any exposure to potential toxins.

Almost all rocks, minerals (and, frankly, almost all other substances on earth) can produce toxic dust when cutting, which can cause serious respiratory conditions including silicosis.

When cutting or polishing rocks, minerals, shells, etc, all work should be done wet to minimise the dust, and a suitable respirator or extraction system should be used.

Translations

Further Reading / External Links

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wulfenite
• https://www.mindat.org/min-4322.html
• https://www.gemsociety.org/article/wulfenite-jewelry-and-gemstone-information/
• https://museum.wales/mineralogy-of-wales/database/?mineral=66&name=Wulfenite