mineral

Red Howlite (Dyed)

Calcium Borosilicate Hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5) with Red Dye

Hardness: 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Naturally white with black/grey veins, dyed bright red; Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: None (massive aggregate); Specific Gravity: 2.45–2.58

Hardness: 3
Color: Naturally white with black/grey veins, dyed bright red
Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy

Identified March 25, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in evaporite deposits within sedimentary basins through hydrothermal or volcanic activity. This specific specimen has been chemically treated with dyes to mimic coral or cinnabar. Natural howlite is found in deposits dating from the Jurassic to the Quaternary periods.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in lapidary arts for beads, carvings, and affordable jewelry. It is often sold as a substitute for more expensive red minerals like stone coral or red Jasper.

Geological facts

Natural howlite is exceptionally porous, allowing it to take on dyes very effectively. While it is sold here as 'Red Howlite,' it is sometimes mislabeled as 'Red Turquoise' or 'Red Coral' in commercial markets due to its web-like veining pattern.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for white patches in drill holes or scratches where the dye hasn't penetrated. It is much softer than quartz or Jasper and can be scratched with a copper penny. Common locations for natural howlite include Nova Scotia (Canada) and California (USA).

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