Other · Middle Atlas
Ghassoul (Rhassoul) Clay
Mineral-rich cleansing clay mined from the Middle Atlas mountains, used as a hair and skin wash in hammam rituals.
History & Cultural Context
Ghassoul clay has been mined from underground deposits near Missour in the Middle Atlas for over a thousand years. It is a natural saponin-free cleanser, prized for its mineral content and gentle exfoliation properties.
Materials
- Ghassoul clayNatural mineral clay (stevensite) from Middle Atlas deposits
Production Techniques
- Mining and sun-dryingTraditional
Clay extracted from underground deposits and dried naturally
Production Notes
Mined as chunks, sun-dried, then ground into powder or mixed with rose water and herbs to form ready-to-use paste. Sold as raw chunks, powder, or premixed paste.
Quality Indicators
Authenticity
Brown to gray-brown color
Quality
Smooth, silky texture when wet
Price Ranges
Budget10 – 30 MAD(~$1 – $3)
Raw chunks, small quantity
Mid-range30 – 80 MAD(~$3 – $8)
Ground powder, 200–500g, good quality
Premium80 – 200 MAD(~$8 – $20)
Premixed paste with rose water and herbs, gift packaging