mineral
Halite
Halite (NaCl)
Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: typically colorless or white; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: cubic; Cleavage: perfect cubic; Specific gravity: 2.16
- Hardness
- 2-2
- Color
- typically colorless or white
- Luster
- vitreous (glassy)
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Physical properties
Hardness: 2-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: typically colorless or white; Luster: vitreous (glassy); Crystal structure: cubic; Cleavage: perfect cubic; Specific gravity: 2.16
Formation & geological history
Formed through the evaporation of saline water in sedimentary basins or dry lake beds (evaporites) over millions of years.
Uses & applications
Source of common table salt, used for road de-icing, chemical industry (chlorine and caustic soda production), and food preservation.
Geological facts
Halite is the mineral form of sodium chloride. It has a characteristic salty taste, though tasting unknown minerals in the field is generally discouraged.
Field identification & locations
Identify by its cubic shape, softness (can be scratched by a copper penny), and solubility in water. Commonly found in salt flats or underground salt mines globally.
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