Halite
Halite is a halide mineral prized by collectors for its exceptional color range, with notable Chinese occurrences.
About Halite
Halite is classified as a halide mineral in the halite group and has the chemical formula NaCl. It crystallizes in the isometric system and is one of the most visually varied minerals in the collector market.
Identification & care
Crystals commonly develop as cubic; hopper crystals (stepwise pyramid growth on cube faces); massive; fibrous; stalactitic. Its color range is broad, including colorless, white, yellow, red (hematite inclusions), purple (radiation-induced), and blue (electron-defect centers). The luster is vitreous, the streak is white, and specimens range from transparent to translucent. The cleavage is perfect cubic {100} in 3 directions. The fracture is conchoidal, which aids identification.
Collector context
Collector notes
Among collectors of crystallized species, Halite is a recognized reference. Documented Chinese occurrences are recorded at Bayan Obo deposit, among others.