\Blende\, n. [G., fr. blenden to blind, dazzle, deceive,
fr. blind blind. So called either in allusion to its dazzling
luster; or (Dana) because, though often resembling galena, it
yields no lead. Cf. {Sphalerite}.] (Min.)
(a) A mineral, called also {sphalerite}, and by miners {mock
    lead}, {false galena}, and {black-jack}. It is a zinc
    sulphide, but often contains some iron. Its color is
    usually yellow, brown, or black, and its luster resinous.
(b) A general term for some minerals, chiefly metallic
    sulphides which have a somewhat brilliant but nonmetallic
    luster.