Halite
Image: Robert M. Lavinsky (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Mineral NameHalite
Chemical FormulaNaCl
Mohs Hardness2.5
Crystal Systemcubic
Lustervitreous
Streak Colorwhite
Cleavageperfect cubic (3 directions at 90 degrees)
Fractureconchoidal
Specific Gravity2.16
Colorscolorless, white, pink, blue, yellow, red, grey
Transparencytransparent
Type LocalityWieliczka Mine, Wieliczka, Małopolskie, Poland
Mineral GroupHalides
Usesfood seasoning, de-icing agent, chemical industry, water softening, preservation, collector specimens
Associated Mineralsgypsum, anhydrite, sylvite, carnallite, polyhalite, clay minerals
Raritycommon
Description
This image displays a cluster of colorless to white halite crystals, exhibiting well-defined cubic forms and a vitreous luster, characteristic of rock salt.
Geological Context
Halite is an evaporite mineral, forming primarily from the evaporation of saline water bodies like seas or salt lakes, leading to extensive sedimentary deposits in arid environments.
