sedimentary

Pink Halite (Himalayan Salt)

Halite (Sodium Chloride, NaCl)

Hardness: 2.0-2.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Pink, orange, or reddish due to trace minerals (iron oxide); Luster: Vitreous (glassy); Crystal Structure: Cubic/Isometric; Cleavage: Perfect cubic; Specific Gravity: 2.17

Hardness: 2
Color: Pink, orange, or reddish due to trace minerals (iron oxide)
Luster: Vitreous (glassy)

Identified April 6, 2026More sedimentary →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed by the evaporation of ancient seawater in landlocked basins. This specific variety often originates from the Salt Range in Pakistan, dating back to the Ediacaran to early Cambrian periods (approx. 500-600 million years ago).

Uses & applications

Used widely in the culinary industry (gourmet salt), for home decor (salt lamps), spa treatments, and chemical manufacturing of chlorine and sodium.

Geological facts

The pink color is caused by trace amounts of iron oxide (rust) or magnesium. While often called 'Himalayan salt', most comes from the Khewra Salt Mine in Pakistan, the second-largest salt mine in the world.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic cubic cleavage, waxy/glassy luster, and salty taste (though tasting unknown minerals is not advised). It is highly soluble in water and will dissolve if left in a humid environment.

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