mineral
Howlite (dyed)
Calcium borosilicate hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5)
Hardness: 3.5; Color: Dyed bright blue (originally white/grey); Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture)
- Hardness
- 3
- Color
- Dyed bright blue (originally white/grey)
- Luster
- Sub-vitreous to earthy
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Physical properties
Hardness: 3.5; Color: Dyed bright blue (originally white/grey); Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal Structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture)
Formation & geological history
Evaporite deposits, formed in continental depressions where boron-rich waters evaporate. Commonly found in nodules resembling cauliflower.
Uses & applications
Imitation gemstone for jewelry, beads, cabochons, and decorative carvings. Used frequently as a substitute for turquoise.
Geological facts
Natural howlite is white with grey veins; it is extremely porous and frequently dyed to mimic turquoise or lapis lazuli. It is named after Henry How, who first described it in Nova Scotia in 1868.
Field identification & locations
Check for hardness (howlite is softer than real turquoise) and look for white spots in deep crevices or scratches which indicate the dye did not penetrate the center.
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