what makes himalayan salt pink

Himalayan salt gets its pink color primarily from the presence of iron oxide (rust) within the salt crystals. This iron oxide, along with other trace minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium, zinc, and copper, is naturally embedded in the salt during its formation millions of years ago in ancient sea beds. The iron oxide reacts with oxygen over time, giving the salt various shades of pink to reddish-pink, depending on the concentration of these minerals. The varying mineral content not only influences the color but also contributes to the salt's characteristic natural, unrefined qualities.