Rock Identifier
Dyed Howlite (often sold as 'Turquenite') (Calcium Borosilicate Hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5)) — mineral
mineral

Dyed Howlite (often sold as 'Turquenite')

Calcium Borosilicate Hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5)

Hardness: 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Naturally white with grey veining, but dyed bright blue/cyan; Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Specific gravity: 2.53-2.59

Hardness
3
Color
Naturally white with grey veining, but dyed bright blue/cyan
Luster
Sub-vitreous to earthy
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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Naturally white with grey veining, but dyed bright blue/cyan; Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Specific gravity: 2.53-2.59

Formation & geological history

Formed in evaporite deposits as nodules. While howlite itself is a natural mineral dating back millions of years, the vibrant blue appearance is a result of modern chemical dyeing processes to simulate turquoise.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in costume jewelry, lapidary work, and as a decorative stone/pocket stone due to its porous nature which absorbs dye easily.

Geological facts

Howlite was first discovered by Henry How in Nova Scotia in 1868. Because it is porous and naturally white with dark veins, it is the most common mineral used to create 'imitation turquoise'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by checking for a uniform blue color that might be concentrated in cracks; if scratched, the inside will be white. Commonly found in California and Canada. For collectors, it is a teaching tool for mineral identification and enhancement techniques.

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