mineral

Halite (Rock Salt)

Sodium Chloride (NaCl)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Colorless to white (can be blue or pink if impurities are present); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Isometric (cubic); Cleavage: Perfect cubic; Specific Gravity: 2.16.

Hardness: 2
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified May 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the evaporation of salt water in enclosed sedimentary basins or dried lake beds. These evaporite deposits often date back to the Permian or Silurian periods.

Uses & applications

Used extensively in the food industry as table salt, in chemical manufacturing (chlorine and lye), for de-icing roads in winter, and as livestock salt licks.

Geological facts

Halite's name is derived from the Greek word 'hals', meaning salt. It is essential for animal life and has been used as currency and a source of conflict throughout human history.

Field identification & locations

Identified in the field by its distinct salty taste (not recommended for unknown minerals), cubic cleavage, and solubility in water. Found in massive salt mines or as crusts in arid lake regions.