mineral
Himalayan salt (rock salt)
Halite (sodium chloride, NaCl)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically translucent pink, orange, white, or gray with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; Mohs hardness 2–2.5, cubic crystal structure, perfect cubic cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.16. The irregularly carved appearance suggests a salt lamp or decorative block.
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Physical properties
Typically translucent pink, orange, white, or gray with a vitreous-to-waxy luster; Mohs hardness 2–2.5, cubic crystal structure, perfect cubic cleavage, and specific gravity about 2.16. The irregularly carved appearance suggests a salt lamp or decorative block.
Formation & geological history
Forms when saline water evaporates in restricted marine basins, producing thick evaporite deposits; many Himalayan deposits formed from Permian-age (~250–300 million-year-old) marine sediments later uplifted in the Himalayan region.
Uses & applications
Used as table salt, chemical feedstock, de-icing salt, water softener, and decorative lamps or carvings; this specimen has modest ornamental value.
Geological facts
Pink coloration commonly comes from trace iron oxides and other impurities, not necessarily from Himalayan provenance. Halite dissolves readily in water and tastes salty, though tasting specimens is not recommended.
Field identification & locations
Identify by cubic cleavage, softness, water solubility, and salty residue; common sources include Pakistan’s Khewra Salt Mine, Poland, Germany, and evaporite basins worldwide. Keep dry because humidity causes pitting and surface dissolution.
