sedimentary
Himalayan Pink Salt (Halite)
Halite (Sodium Chloride, NaCl)
Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange, or reddish due to trace minerals (iron oxide); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect cubic; Specific Gravity: 2.16
- Hardness
- 2-2
- Color
- Pink, orange, or reddish due to trace minerals (iron oxide)
- Luster
- Vitreous
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange, or reddish due to trace minerals (iron oxide); Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect cubic; Specific Gravity: 2.16
Formation & geological history
Formed by the evaporation of ancient inland seas approximately 250 to 800 million years ago (Precambrian to Permian). Formed through tectonic pressure in the Salt Range of Pakistan.
Uses & applications
Culinary use (table salt), interior design (salt lamps), spa treatments (salt scrubs), and as mineral supplements for livestock.
Geological facts
The pink color is caused by over 84 trace minerals, specifically iron oxide (rust). It is considered one of the purest forms of salt because it was protected by lava and ice for millions of years.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its cubic cleavage planes, salty taste (not recommended for unknown field specimens), and solubility in water. Predominantly mined in the Khewra Salt Mine, Pakistan.
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