mineral

Turquenite (Dyed Howlite)

Dyed Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5 (Calcium Borosilicate Hydroxide)

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Hardness: 3.5 (Mohs scale); Color: Neon blue/cyan (surface depth), naturally white inside; Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy; Crystal structure: Monoclinic; Cleavage: None (conchoidal fracture); Specific gravity: 2.45 - 2.58

Hardness: 3
Color: Neon blue/cyan (surface depth), naturally white inside
Luster: Sub-vitreous to earthy

Identified March 31, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Howlite forms in evaporite deposits, usually as nodules. The 'Turquenite' variety is a modern industrial product where natural howlite is dyed blue to mimic Turquoise. Original minerals often date back to the Cretaceous or Cenozoic eras in sedimentary basins.

Uses & applications

Used primarily in costume jewelry, wire-wrapped pendants, and as a pocket stone for spiritual/metaphysical collecting. Often used as an affordable substitute for genuine Turquoise.

Geological facts

Howlite was first discovered by Henry How in Nova Scotia in 1868. It is naturally very porous, which allows it to absorb dye better than almost any other mineral. While it looks like Turquoise, it is much softer and lacks the copper content that gives real Turquoise its color.

Field identification & locations

Identify in the field/market by using a cotton swab with acetone—the blue dye will often rub off. Field identification of natural howlite is based on its white 'cauliflower' nodule appearance. To distinguish from Turquoise: it is significantly softer and the 'matrix' lines are usually grey or black rather than reddish-brown or gold.