mineral

Red Dyed Howlite

Calcium Borosilicate Hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5)

Hardness: 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Naturally white, dyed bright red; Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 2.45-2.58. It typically has a porous texture that absorbs dye easily.

Hardness: 3
Color: Naturally white, dyed bright red
Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy

Identified March 8, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Howlite is form in evaporite deposits, commonly found in sedimentary environments. It is a borate mineral that occurs as nodules or cauliflower-like masses and is then dyed artificially to simulate other stones.

Uses & applications

Primarily used for decorative jewelry, beads, and pocket stones. It is often used as a cheaper substitute for Red Coral or Cinnabar because of its natural black veining which mimics high-end gemstones.

Geological facts

Howlite was first discovered by Henry How in 1868 in Nova Scotia, Canada. In its natural white state, it is frequently dyed blue to look like Turquoise or red to mimic decorative jasper or coral.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field by its natural white/grey nodules and erratic black 'spider-web' veins. If it is bright red like the specimen shown, look for color concentrated in surface cracks which indicates chemical dyeing. Common locations include Canada and the USA (California).

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