mineral
Halite
Sodium Chloride (NaCl)
Hardness: 2.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Colorless or white, but can be tinted blue, purple, yellow, or pink. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Perfect cubic cleavage in three directions at 90-degree angles. Specific gravity: 2.16.
- Hardness
- 2
- Luster
- Vitreous to greasy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5 on Mohs scale. Color: Colorless or white, but can be tinted blue, purple, yellow, or pink. Luster: Vitreous to greasy. Crystal structure: Isometric (cubic). Cleavage: Perfect cubic cleavage in three directions at 90-degree angles. Specific gravity: 2.16.
Formation & geological history
Formed by the evaporation of saline waters (such as enclosed lakes or restricted seas) in arid climates. Geological age varies widely depending on the specific evaporite deposit, ranging from ancient Precambrian to modern salt flats.
Uses & applications
Used primarily in the chemical industry, for highway de-icing, food seasoning and preservation, and water softening.
Geological facts
Halite dissolves readily in water and has a distinct salty taste. It often forms massive bedded sedimentary deposits known as rock salt.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its cubic crystal form, softness, perfect cubic cleavage, and salty taste. Found globally in sedimentary evaporite basins.
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