Himalayan Salt
Halite var. Himalayan Pink · Mineral Specimen and Decorative Stone
Crystal System
Cubic; typically occurs in massive, granular, or compact crystalline forms rather than distinct cubic crystals in this raw state.
Mineral Group
Halides
Chemical Formula
NaCl (Sodium Chloride) with trace Iron Oxide (Fe2O3) and Magnesium
Formation Process
Sedimentary; formed by the evaporation of ancient sea water (Tethys Ocean) during the Precambrian to Cambrian periods, later compressed by tectonic forces.
About This Crystal
A raw, crystalline chunk of rock salt featuring a range of peachy-pink to orange hues. It is translucent to opaque with a greasy to vitreous luster and a granular, irregular surface texture typical of evaporated mineral deposits.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Pink, orange, or salmon; Streak: White; Cleavage: Perfect cubic (though often obscured in raw chunks); Facture: Conchoidal to irregular; Specific Gravity: 2.1-2.6; Fluorescence: Generally none, though some specimens may show weak orange.
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.544; Single refraction (Isotropic); no pleochroism or dispersion; transparency depends on purity and thickness.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Khewra Salt Mine, Punjab region of Pakistan; specifically the Salt Range mountains.
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 2.0 to 2.5; low durability; very brittle; highly soluble in water and sensitive to high humidity.
Care & Maintenance
Keep strictly dry; will dissolve if washed or submerged. Clean with a dry cloth or soft brush. Do not use ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Store in a low-humidity environment to prevent 'sweating'.
Rarity & Value
Common; value is determined by weight, color saturation (darker pinks are more desirable), and size. Generally inexpensive and widely available for decorative or culinary use.
Special Characteristics
Hygroscopic (absorbs moisture from the air); salty taste; distinctive pink coloration caused by iron oxide impurities within the salt lattice.
Lore & History
Discovered during the campaigns of Alexander the Great circa 326 BC when his horses were found licking the rocks. Symbolizes purification and grounding in modern lore; traditionally used in Feng Shui to clear negative energy.