mineral
Raw Pink Salt (Himalayan Salt)
Halite (NaCl with trace minerals)
Hardness of 2.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from light pink to deep orange/red, vitreous to greasy luster, isometric crystal structure, perfect cubic cleavage, specific gravity of 2.16.
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Physical properties
Hardness of 2.5 on the Mohs scale, color ranges from light pink to deep orange/red, vitreous to greasy luster, isometric crystal structure, perfect cubic cleavage, specific gravity of 2.16.
Formation & geological history
Formed through the evaporation of ancient enclosed bodies of water, primarily ancient seas and lakes, over hundreds of millions of years (often Permian to Triassic periods).
Uses & applications
Used in culinary applications, decorative salt lamps, spa products, animal licks, and occasionally in carving and holistic wellness.
Geological facts
True Himalayan salt is mined from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan, formed approximately 600 million years ago from the evaporation of a primordial ocean. The pink color is primarily due to trace amounts of iron oxide.
Field identification & locations
Easily identified by its characteristic pink-to-orange color, salty taste, softness (easily scratched by a copper coin), and cubic cleavage. Major deposits are found in the Punjab region of Pakistan.
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