mineral

Howlite (dyed)

Calcium borosilicate hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

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

Identified July 19, 2026More mineral →

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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.