mineral

Dyed Howlite (often sold as Turquenite)

Calcium Borosilicate Hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3.5 (natural state); Color: Light blue with dark grey/black veining; Luster: Sub-vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Opaque.

Hardness: 3
Color: Light blue with dark grey/black veining
Luster: Sub-vitreous to dull

Identified July 16, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 3.5 (natural state); Color: Light blue with dark grey/black veining; Luster: Sub-vitreous to dull; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Opaque.

Formation & geological history

Howlite is an evaporite mineral found in nodules in sedimentary basins. This specific specimen has been carved into a double-terminated hexagonal point and chemically dyed to resemble turquoise.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in costume jewelry, lapidary work, and as a metaphysical or healing stone. It is a common substitute for genuine turquoise.

Geological facts

Howlite is naturally white or milky grey with dark veins. Because of its porous nature, it absorbs dye very well. It was first discovered near Windsor, Nova Scotia in 1868 by Henry How.

Field identification & locations

Identify by checking for white patches inside scratches (dye may not penetrate the center) or by wiping with acetone to see if color bleeds. Naturally found in Canada, USA, Germany, and Turkey.