Geology/History
Howlite is a borate mineral best known for its distinctive white to greyish-white colour, often marked by fine, spiderweb-like veining. It typically occurs as nodular masses with a characteristic cauliflower-like surface texture rather than as well-formed crystals, which are exceptionally rare. Howlite was first discovered in 1868 in Nova Scotia, Canada, by the Canadian geologist Henry How, after whom the mineral is named.
Howlite forms in borate-rich evaporite deposits, where boron-laden groundwater evaporates and leaves behind concentrated mineral nodules. Major deposits have been found in Canada, the United States (notably California), Germany and Turkey. In recent decades, Brazil has also become an important source for the jewellery and bead trade, although there are reports that some Brazilian operations may have closed due to changing regulations and economic conditions.
Because of its porous structure and ease of absorbing dye, Howlite is frequently dyed vivid blue or green and sold as an affordable substitute for turquoise. However, it is often misrepresented and falsely labelled as genuine turquoise in the gem trade. In its natural state, its calm, marbled appearance is admired for beads, cabochons, carvings and decorative objects. Although not an ore mineral, Howlite remains valued by lapidaries, jewellery makers and collectors for its versatility and understated beauty.
Metaphysical Properties
Howlite is widely regarded as a stone of calm, perspective and clear expression. It is said to soothe an overactive mind, ease stress and encourage restful sleep, making it particularly valued as a companion for those struggling with insomnia.
This gentle stone is believed to help you remain true to yourself and trust your inner wisdom, fostering confidence in your intuition and clarity in your thoughts. Many regard Howlite as a patient teacher that encourages emotional balance, reduces irritability and dissolves ties to old emotional patterns, helping to calm triggers that no longer serve you.
Howlite is often associated with the crown and third eye chakras, believed to open the mind to higher guidance and spiritual insight while gently channelling wisdom from the higher self. Placing Howlite in a pocket is thought to absorb one’s own anger as well as any anger or negativity directed towards you, promoting a calm, centred state.
It is also said to support the achievement of both spiritual and material goals by promoting self-awareness, patience and steady progress. Some traditions regard Howlite as a comforting stone during pregnancy, believed to support emotional harmony and ease stress during this significant time.
Crystal Healing
Howlite is believed to support relaxation and stress relief, ease insomnia and promote restorative sleep. Some practitioners use it to calm an overactive nervous system and help balance calcium levels within the body, supporting healthy bones and teeth. It is said to encourage emotional release, soften irritability and aid in overcoming resentment or frustration.
Mineralogy
Group: Borate
Crystal System: Monoclinic
Chemical Composition: Ca₂B₅SiO₉(OH)₅
Form/Habit: Nodular masses, earthy aggregates, rarely tabular crystals
Hardness: 3.5 (Mohs scale)
Cleavage: None observed
Fracture: Subconchoidal to uneven
Lustre: Subvitreous to dull, sometimes pearly on fractures
Streak: White
Specific Gravity: 2.53 to 2.59
Transparency: Translucent when in thin fragments, generally opaque
Refractive Index (R.I.): 1.586 to 1.605
Birefringence: δ = 0.019
Colour: White to greyish white, with grey or black vein-like markings
Pleochroism: None
Fluorescence: Sometimes weak blue to white under UV light
Strunz Classification: 6.CB.10 (Borates)
Dana Classification: 26.6.4.1 (Borates)