mineral

Blue Howlite

Dyed Howlite (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5)

Hardness: 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: bright blue (dyed); Luster: sub-glassy to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.45-2.58.

Hardness: 3
Color: bright blue (dyed)
Luster: sub-glassy to earthy

Identified June 30, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5 on Mohs scale; Color: bright blue (dyed); Luster: sub-glassy to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: none; Specific Gravity: 2.45-2.58.

Formation & geological history

Howlite naturally forms as a borate mineral in evaporite deposits. The blue color is artificially applied via dye to mimic turquoise, as natural howlite is white with grey or black veins.

Uses & applications

Mainly used as a decorative stone, in costume jewelry (beads, pendants), and as a more affordable substitute for turquoise in the lapidary arts.

Geological facts

Natural howlite was first discovered in Nova Scotia by Henry How in 1868. It is extremely porous, making it one of the easiest minerals to dye. It is often sold under the trade name 'Turquenite'.

Field identification & locations

Identify by checking for a white streak or looking for the characteristic 'spider-web' grey veins under the dye. It is much softer than real turquoise. Common sources include Canada and the USA.