mineral

Pink halite (rock salt)

Halite (sodium chloride, NaCl)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Typically colorless to pink, with a vitreous-to-pearly luster, cubic crystal structure, perfect cubic cleavage, and Mohs hardness 2–2.5; it is readily water-soluble. The specimen appears as a translucent, irregular cleavage fragment, though visual identification is not definitive.

Identified August 14, 2026More mineral →

Explore Pink halite (rock salt) in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

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

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Forms by evaporation and chemical precipitation of saline water in sedimentary evaporite basins, commonly during the Paleozoic to Cenozoic. Pink color generally results from trapped inclusions or trace impurities, often iron oxides or microorganisms.

Uses & applications

Used for table salt, deicing, water softening, and chemical production; attractive pink crystals are sold as decorative or collecting specimens.

Geological facts

Halite tastes salty, but tasting specimens is discouraged because of contamination. It commonly occurs with gypsum, anhydrite, and sylvite.

Field identification & locations

Identify by cubic cleavage, low hardness, salty appearance, and rapid dissolution in water; major deposits occur in the United States, Canada, Poland, Germany, and Pakistan. Avoid moisture during storage.