mineral

Halite

Sodium Chloride (NaCl)

Hardness: 2-2.5 Mohs scale, Color: Colorless to white, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Cubic/isometric, Cleavage: Perfect cubic in three directions, Specific Gravity: 2.16

Hardness: 2-2

Identified July 12, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 2-2.5 Mohs scale, Color: Colorless to white, Luster: Vitreous (glassy), Crystal Structure: Cubic/isometric, Cleavage: Perfect cubic in three directions, Specific Gravity: 2.16

Formation & geological history

Formed through the evaporation of saline water (evaporite) in enclosed sedimentary basins, salt lakes, or playas. It can range in age from ancient Precambrian deposits to modern formations.

Uses & applications

Used primarily as common table salt, for de-icing roads, in chemical manufacturing (producing chlorine and sodium hydroxide), and as a food preservative.

Geological facts

Halite is highly soluble in water and can be identified by its salty taste (though tasting unknown minerals in the field is not always recommended). Large underground deposits are known as salt domes.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its perfect cubic cleavage and salty taste. Commonly found in dried lake beds like the Bonneville Salt Flats or deep underground mines in locations like Himalayan foothills or Michigan, USA.