Octaëdral Carbonate of Lead

We are indebted for the present specimen to James Brodie, Esq., who brought it from Stolfield near Lossie Mouth Elginshire, from an estate of John Brander, Esq. It is curious for having an octaëdral crystal nearly resembling, at first sight, the secondary one figured by Haüy, pl. 67. fig. 46. There are the four faces of the primitive octaëdron as mentioned by Haüy, fig. 45. M: See the trapezoidal faces. It has also four triangular faces agreeing with y of fig. 50.—Haüy.

This specimen is an example of a hard flinty rock holding Galsena or common Lead ore, sufficiently good to tempt the miner; but the hardness of the rock is an obstacle not easily overcome without an amazing expense. In these improved times, however, I should think this difficulty less considerable than formerly, if the ore is sufficiently abundant. There is perhaps an additional hope to the owner that he may not be aware of, which is, that Phosphate and Carbonate of Lead accompany the Galæna; and where these are, the rock is fissile, and more easily accessible. The situation, as to distance of fuel and conveniences for smelting, is certainly to be considered.