PYROMORPHITE – 100+ Green Crystals, Crabulazzu Mine, Sardinia, Italy

Excellent natural specimen of Pyromorphite from the Crabulazzu Mine, Arbus, Sardinia — historically regarded as one of the finest sources of pyromorphite in Italy, having produced some of the best Sardinian specimens ever recorded since the late 19th century.

The specimen is densely covered with over 100 well-defined green crystals, growing naturally on matrix with bright, lustrous surfaces and regular crystal faces that showcase the intense green tones characteristic of the species. The sheer density and uniformity of the crystal coverage creates a harmonious, decorative visual effect that is particularly striking.

This locality is genuinely rare on today's international mineral market, and historical mineralogical literature has even noted a slight natural radioactivity in pyromorphite from this specific mining area — an unusual trait for the species, adding a further layer of scientific interest.

A richly crystallized, visually striking specimen, ideal for collectors seeking uncommon Italian material of genuine historical and mineralogical significance.

Pyromorphite is a lead chlorophosphate mineral, forming as a secondary mineral in the oxidized zone of lead ore deposits, where phosphate-bearing groundwater interacts with lead minerals such as galena. At Crabulazzu, it developed within a historic lead-mining district on Sardinia's southwestern coast, occasionally alongside wulfenite and cerussite.

The crystal system is hexagonal, and pyromorphite typically forms prismatic, barrel-shaped or tabular crystals, often in dense druses as seen in this specimen. Its green coloration comes from trace element substitutions within the crystal lattice, while the slight radioactivity documented for this specific locality is attributed to minor uranium or thorium content associated with the host rock — though at a level not considered hazardous under normal handling.

• Formula: Pb₅(PO₄)₃Cl
• Key chemical elements: Lead (Pb), Phosphorus (P), Oxygen (O), Chlorine (Cl)
• Hardness (Mohs scale): 3.5 – 4
• Mineral class: Phosphates (Apatite supergroup)
• Crystal system: Hexagonal
• Crystal habit: Prismatic to barrel-shaped crystals in dense druse on matrix
• Formation: Secondary mineral in the oxidized zone of lead ore deposits
• Color: Intense green
• Radioactivity: Historically documented as slightly radioactive for this specific locality (not considered hazardous under normal handling)

Pyromorphite gets its name from the Greek "pyr" (fire) and "morphe" (form), referring to the way it recrystallizes into rounded globules when melted and then cooled.

Historical mineralogical studies (Puxeddu & Marini, 1923) documented that pyromorphite from the Crabulazzu-Gragonti mining area shows slight natural radioactivity — likely linked to trace uranium or thorium in the local host rock — a notable and unusual characteristic for the species, rarely seen at other pyromorphite localities worldwide.

In crystal healing traditions, Pyromorphite is sometimes associated with grounding and structure, valued for its vivid green tones and dense, orderly crystal formations. These interpretations are not scientifically proven.

Radioactivity & Safety: Uranium and thorium-bearing mineral specimens contain naturally occurring radioactive elements and should be handled responsibly. Avoid ingestion or inhalation of dust, and wash hands after handling. We recommend storing these specimens away from prolonged close contact and keeping them out of reach of children. These specimens are intended for mineralogical and collector use only, and are shipped in accordance with applicable regulations for natural radioactive minerals.

Photos: All photographs are taken under professional lighting conditions to accurately highlight crystal structure, color and detail. However, slight variations in tone and appearance may occur depending on screen calibration and ambient lighting conditions.

Shipping: is handled through selected reliable express couriers, with fast delivery (often 1–2 business days within Europe), full tracking, insurance coverage and professional protective packaging, as confirmed by customer feedback and reviews.

Multiple purchases can be consolidated into a single shipment, including items from different auctions or separate orders, by simply contacting us to arrange combined shipping. For high-value specimens, direct delivery by appointment is also available, either at home or at major European mineral shows and fairs.