mineral
Dyed green howlite or magnesite pendant
Howlite (Ca₂SiB₅O₉(OH)₅) or magnesite (MgCO₃), likely dyed green
AI-generated identification · may be incorrectTypically white, opaque, and porous with dark gray spiderweb veining; this polished pendant is green from dye and has a vitreous-to-waxy luster. Hardness is about 3–3.5 (howlite) or 3.5–4.5 (magnesite), with no obvious cleavage and a fine, microcrystalline structure.
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Physical properties
Typically white, opaque, and porous with dark gray spiderweb veining; this polished pendant is green from dye and has a vitreous-to-waxy luster. Hardness is about 3–3.5 (howlite) or 3.5–4.5 (magnesite), with no obvious cleavage and a fine, microcrystalline structure.
Formation & geological history
Howlite forms in borate-rich evaporite environments, while magnesite forms by alteration of magnesium-rich rocks; both are generally young secondary minerals. The pendant has been cut, polished, drilled, and dyed, so its natural locality cannot be determined visually.
Uses & applications
Used primarily for inexpensive jewelry, carvings, beads, and decorative objects; it is commonly marketed misleadingly as “green turquoise” or “dyed turquoise.”
Geological facts
The curved black-green network and unusually uniform color strongly suggest dyed howlite or magnesite rather than natural turquoise. Dye may concentrate in cracks and porous areas.
Field identification & locations
Check the underside or drill hole for white material, which supports dyeing; a steel-knife scratch can test low hardness, though it may damage the pendant. Common sources include the United States, Turkey, Brazil, and China.
