Dyed Howlite (simulating Lavender/Purple Jade or Charoite)

These beads appear processed and dyed. The base mineral, Howlite, typically has a monoclinic crystal structure. Natural Howlite is usually white or gray with dark veining. Hardness is 3.5 on Mohs scale. Luster is typically sub-vitreous to earthy. These beads are polished, giving them a vitreous luster. The color is artificially purple/lavender with white and sometimes blue mottling. Natural jade or charoite would have different hardness and formation characteristics.

Howlite is a borate mineral found in evaporite deposits. It forms during the alteration of boron-rich sediments and volcanic rocks. The dyeing process is artificial and occurs after extraction and shaping of the mineral, making the 'formation' of this specific color a human intervention. Natural Howlite deposits are geologically relatively young.

Predominantly used in jewelry (beads, cabochons) and ornamental objects. Due to its porous nature, Howlite is easily dyed to imitate more expensive stones like turquoise, lapis lazuli, or, as seen here, potentially lavender jade or charoite. It is also carved into sculptures and decorative items.

Howlite was discovered near Windsor, Nova Scotia, in 1868 by Henry How, a Canadian geologist, mineralogist, and chemist, after whom it was named. It is often sold under trade names like 'White Turquoise' or 'Lavender Turquoise' when dyed. The beads in the image clearly show a dyed effect due to the uneven color distribution and the presence of white and blue areas suggesting a porous base material.

In the field, natural Howlite is identified by its white color with gray/black spiderweb-like matrix, its relative softness (scratchable with a knife), and its light weight. These dyed beads are identifiable by their unnaturally vibrant and often uneven color, which can sometimes rub off with wear. The presence of white undyed patches and inconsistent color saturation is a strong indicator of dyeing. Common localities for natural Howlite include California and Nevada in the USA, and Nova Scotia in Canada.