mineral

Howlite and Purpurite druzy

Calcium Borosilicate Hydroxide (Howlite) and Manganese Phosphate (Purpurite)

Howlite (white): Hardness 3.5, white with grey/black veining, sub-vitreous to earthy luster. Purpurite (purple): Hardness 4-4.5, deep purple color, earthy luster with a sparkling 'druzy' druse texture on these specific beads.

Identified April 19, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Howlite forms in evaporite deposits in arid environments. Purpurite is a secondary mineral formed from the oxidation of lithiophilite in granitic pegmatites.

Uses & applications

Predominantly used for jewelry, lapidary work, and decorative carvings. Howlite is often dyed to imitate turquoise or lapis lazuli.

Geological facts

Howlite was first discovered in 1868 near Windsor, Nova Scotia, by Henry How. Purpurite is chemically related to heterosite and gets its name from the Latin word 'purpura' due to its characteristic color.

Field identification & locations

Identify howlite by its erratic grey 'spiderweb' veins and porous texture. These beads appear to be mass-produced for costume jewelry. Found in California (USA), Canada, and Namibia.

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