mineral
Pink halite (pink rock salt)
Halite, sodium chloride (NaCl)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically salmon-pink to orange, translucent, with a vitreous-to-greasy luster and cubic cleavage; Mohs hardness 2–2.5, specific gravity about 2.16. The specimen appears massive and cleavage-fractured rather than well-crystallized.
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Physical properties
Typically salmon-pink to orange, translucent, with a vitreous-to-greasy luster and cubic cleavage; Mohs hardness 2–2.5, specific gravity about 2.16. The specimen appears massive and cleavage-fractured rather than well-crystallized.
Formation & geological history
Forms by evaporation of saline water in sedimentary evaporite basins, commonly during arid periods; pink color usually comes from trace impurities such as iron oxides or trapped microorganisms. Deposits range from ancient Paleozoic–Mesozoic evaporites to modern salt lakes.
Uses & applications
Used for table and industrial salt, chemical production, water softening, deicing, and decorative specimens; generally not used as durable construction stone because it dissolves readily.
Geological facts
Halite tastes salty, dissolves easily in water, and commonly forms cubes or hopper-shaped crystals. Pink halite is especially associated with evaporite deposits such as the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan and salt lakes worldwide.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its very low hardness, cubic cleavage, salty taste (avoid tasting unknown specimens), rapid water solubility, and lack of fizz in acid. Common sources include Pakistan, Poland, the United States, Canada, and Chile.
