mineral

Blue Howlite (Dyed)

Calcium Borosilicate Hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5)

Hardness: 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Artificially blue/turquoise; Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 2.53-2.59

Hardness: 3
Color: Artificially blue/turquoise
Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy

Identified May 5, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: Artificially blue/turquoise; Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Specific Gravity: 2.53-2.59

Formation & geological history

Howlite is an evaporite mineral found in sedimentary environments. While the base mineral is natural, the blue color is achieved by immersing porous white Howlite into chemical dyes to mimic turquoise.

Uses & applications

Mainly used as a decorative stone, in costume jewelry, and as a pocket stone for collectors. It is a common substitute for genuine turquoise.

Geological facts

Howlite was discovered in 1868 by Henry How in Nova Scotia. In its natural form, it is snowflake white with dark veins, but its porous nature makes it the most commonly dyed mineral in the gem trade.

Field identification & locations

Identify by looking for white patches in spiderweb cracks where dye didn't penetrate. Natural Howlite is found in the USA, Canada, and Germany. Collectors use it as an affordable alternative to rarer stones.

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