Niter
A variety of Minerals
What is Niter?
Niter is a colorless to white mineral crystallizing in the orthorhombic crystal system. It usually is found as massive encrustations and efflorescent growths on cavern walls and ceilings where solutions containing alkali potassium and nitrate seep into the openings. It occasionally occurs as prismatic acicular crystal groups, and individual crystals commonly show twinning. Niter and other nitrates can also form in association with deposits of guano and similar organic materials.
Market Value Factors
Pricing varies for every rock and mineral, so use these universal factors to gauge Niter before comparing listings or appraisals.
Size & Weight
Larger, intact specimens usually command higher prices.
Rarity & Demand
Scarce material or popular varieties sell at a premium.
Condition & Finish
Chips, repairs, and heavy wear lower value; clean prep helps.
Treatment & Provenance
Untreated specimens with documented locality are prized.
Quick Facts
Physical Properties
- Color
- Colorless or white, light yellow, very light gray
- Hardness (Mohs)
- 2
- Rock tumbling
- Not recommended
- Density
- 2.11 g/cm³
- Streak
- White
Chemical Properties
- Chemical Formula
- KNO3
- Elements
- K, N, O
Also Known As
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Niter FAQs
How do I identify Niter?
Niter can be identified by its hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale, Colorless or white color. Look for these key characteristics when examining specimens.
What color is Niter?
Niter typically appears in Colorless or white, light yellow, very light gray. Color can vary depending on impurities and formation conditions.
How hard is Niter?
Niter has a hardness of 2 on the Mohs scale. This makes it a soft mineral that can be scratched easily.
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