Halite

Introduction: Halite is more commonly known as rock salt. The Greek word halos means 'salt'. It is colourless to white and more often than not forms perfect cubic crystals in saline pans. Halite changes to a striking pink colour when algae is present in the water. Although halite is known to season food, its chemical uses include the manufacture of soda, paper, glass, caustic soda, detergents, soap and in food preservation. Salt is used in Namibia to surface some roads along the coast north of Swakopmund.

Distribution: Concentrated along the coastline between Walvis Bay and Cape Cross. Also harvested from over 30 evaporation pans close to Swakopmund. They also occur in the Etosha Pan.

Composition: Halide

Crystal system: Cubic

Lustre: Vitreous

Streak: White

Hardness: 2