White Howlite Crystal

White Howlite Crystal

Howlite is a calcium borosilicate hydroxide mineral (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5) with a Mohs hardness of 3.5. It was first discovered in 1868 by Canadian chemist Henry How near Windsor, Nova Scotia, when miners found a stone they had not seen before interfering with gypsum quarrying operations. Howlite is always white to grayish-white with characteristic grey-to-black veining caused by inclusions of other minerals — a patterning often compared to marble or porcelain.

Because of its porous structure and white base color, howlite is one of the most commonly dyed stones in the mineral trade — it is frequently dyed turquoise blue and sold as imitation turquoise. All howlite at Crystals.com is natural, undyed white howlite. We never sell dyed howlite as turquoise or any other stone.

Howlite is available as tumbled stones, palm stones, bracelets, towers, and raw specimens. Its soft, matte white appearance pairs beautifully with darker minerals like obsidian, black tourmaline, and smoky quartz. Browse our crystals for anxiety collection for more calming stones, or explore selenite for another white mineral. Free shipping on all U.S. orders over $150.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is howlite?

Howlite is a calcium borosilicate hydroxide mineral discovered in 1868 in Nova Scotia, Canada. It has a Mohs hardness of 3.5, a white body color, and characteristic grey-to-black veining. It is commonly found in nodular masses rather than individual crystals.

Is howlite often faked or dyed?

Howlite is not faked, but it is frequently dyed. Because of its porous structure and white base, howlite is the most commonly dyed stone in the mineral trade — typically dyed turquoise blue and sold as imitation turquoise. All howlite at Crystals.com is natural and undyed. If you see vivid blue "howlite" elsewhere, it is almost certainly dyed.

How do I care for howlite?

Howlite is soft (Mohs 3.5) and porous. Avoid prolonged water exposure, as the mineral can absorb liquids and discolor. Clean with a soft dry cloth. Store separately from harder minerals to prevent scratching. Keep howlite bracelets away from lotions, perfumes, and chemicals that could be absorbed by the stone.

What is howlite used for?

Collectors value howlite for its clean white aesthetic and marble-like veining. It makes an elegant display stone and pairs well with darker minerals for visual contrast. Howlite bracelets are popular for their neutral color that works with any wardrobe. The stone is also commonly included in calming crystal kits.

What is the difference between howlite and magnesite?

Howlite and magnesite look similar (both are white with veining) and are sometimes confused. Howlite is a borosilicate; magnesite is a magnesium carbonate. Magnesite is slightly harder and denser. Both are commonly dyed to imitate turquoise. The distinction often requires testing, but genuine howlite typically has more defined grey-black veining.