mineral

Turquoise-colored howlite (likely dyed), polished cabochon

Howlite, Ca₂B₅SiO₉(OH)₅; the blue color is commonly added dye, though stabilized or imitation turquoise cannot be ruled out visually.

AI-generated identification · may be incorrect

Opaque, vivid blue with dark spiderweb-like matrix and a polished surface. Howlite is monoclinic and Mohs 3.5; natural turquoise is triclinic, Mohs 5–6, so appearance alone cannot confirm the material.

Identified October 1, 2026More mineral →

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At a glance

Common name: Turquoise-colored howlite (likely dyed), polished cabochon
Scientific name: Howlite, Ca₂B₅SiO₉(OH)₅; the blue color is commonly added dye, though stabilized or imitation turquoise cannot be ruled out visually.
Category: mineral
Identified: October 1, 2026
Method: Standard

AI Estimated Value

About $1–$10 as a small howlite bead or cabochon; genuine turquoise of comparable size varies widely, often roughly $5–$100 or more depending on quality and origin.

Not an official valuation

AI estimate for general interest only — not an appraisal. Actual value depends on condition, provenance, and market demand. Verify with a professional before buying, selling, or insuring.

This identification was generated by AI and may contain errors. Verify important details before relying on them — and never use an AI result to judge whether a specimen is safe to handle. Read the full disclaimer

Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Howlite forms in borate-rich evaporite deposits, commonly as nodules in arid settings; its geological age varies by deposit. The pictured stone has been shaped and polished, and may have been dyed.

Uses & applications

Used for beads, cabochons, and inexpensive jewelry, often as a turquoise substitute; genuine turquoise is also valued in jewelry and decorative arts.

Geological facts

Howlite’s porous, white natural form readily accepts dye, and its dark veining can imitate turquoise matrix.

Field identification & locations

The bright, uniform blue and conspicuous dark webbing are common in dyed howlite or imitation turquoise. Testing hardness or examining a tiny inconspicuous area for dye transfer can help, but gemological testing is needed for reliable identification.