Okay, halite is salt, but for one thing, it is just as legitimate a mineral as any other, even if you CAN eat it (not this though - it contains bacteria so don't lick it!). This batch of gorgeous halite specimens was mined last year in California, and they are REALLY distinctive. Look at the amazingly fine structure of the crystals and beautiful bright pink color! But more than that, they have this wonderful contrast with a uniquely new matrix covered with minute nahcolite.