How do cerussite and anglesite form from galena?

Galena, a lead sulfide, is the primary ore of lead that frequently weathers into secondary minerals like anglesite and cerussite when exposed to surface conditions.123

• Anglesite (Lead Sulfate): This mineral forms through the oxidation of galena. When galena is subjected to sulfate-bearing solutions—often generated by the oxidation of associated sulfide minerals—it converts into lead sulfate.13
• Cerussite (Lead Carbonate): This mineral forms through the chemical action of carbonated groundwater on galena. The formation of cerussite often occurs alongside or follows the development of anglesite.431

These secondary minerals are commonly found in the upper, weathered portions of galena deposits. They often appear as concentrically banded masses that surround a core of unaltered galena.12