mineral

Himalayan Pink Salt

Halite (NaCl) with trace minerals

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange, red, or white; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect cubic; Specific Gravity: 2.16

Hardness: 2-2
Color: Pink, orange, red, or white
Luster: Vitreous

Identified July 1, 2026More mineral →

Explore Himalayan Pink Salt in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange, red, or white; Luster: Vitreous; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: Perfect cubic; Specific Gravity: 2.16

Formation & geological history

Formed through the evaporation of ancient seas approximately 250-300 million years ago during the Permian period. Compressed by tectonic pressure following the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in culinary arts (gourmet table salt), spa treatments (salt lamps and scrubs), industrial chemical production, and as decorative pieces.

Geological facts

The pink hue comes from trace minerals, specifically iron oxide (rust). Most authentic Himalayan salt is mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan, the world's second-largest salt mine.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic cubic cleavage and salty taste. It is highly soluble in water. In the field, look for massive evaporite deposits or rock salt beds in arid regions.