In this informative article you will learn all the characteristics, uses and properties of Howlite. This is one of the most attractive minerals in nature and with different applications in everyday life. For this reason, we invite you to pay attention to all the details that we have prepared for you.
Howlite is a mineral that belongs to the class of borates that is normally seen in a polished and tumbled form. It has become one of the most important collectibles, regardless of how low-cost it is. In fact, thanks to its economy, many people can enjoy an attractive and elegant rock.
This gem is white in color and very easy to dye, even resembling turquoise when worn. blue-green hues. It is even used as a cheap substitute, so you have to be careful. Do not be fooled or confused when buying a turquoise that is not certified, as it could be khaulite.
Over the years, this stone has been studied, both in the scientific and empirical fields. Consequently, many people have attributed certain powers and benefits. Next, we will talk about all these aspects.
Mineralogical characteristics
Its composition is basic calcium silicon borate, with a white color in its natural form. It presents slight black, gray or brown markings, depending on the inclusion of other minerals. Its vein is white, with a hardness level on the Mohs scale of range 3.5.
Belongs to monoclinic crystal system and is formed in great masses and nodules, as well as fragments thereof. The crystals are tabular, very small and are usually grouped together. Its transparency is translucent in thin chips, while in thick chips it is opaque.
It is a stone with brittle tenacity, couple conchoidal fracture and no claveage.
| howlite | Physical and chemical properties |
|---|---|
| Composition | basic calcium silico-borate |
| Chemical formula | Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5 |
| class, group | Boron oxides, Hydroxides |
| Color | White, yellow, commonly marked with black, gray, or brown intersecting like vines or skin-like veins |
| Stripe | White |
| Mohs hardness | 3.5 |
| Crystalline system | monoclinic |
| Transparency | Translucent in thin slivers; otherwise opaque |
| Specific weight or density | 2.5 – 2.6 gr/cm3 |
| Brightness | Opaque, sometimes vitreous |
| cleavage | None |
| Fracture | conchoidal to even |
| Tenacity | Fragile |
| Other identification marks | It can emit a cream-yellow to white color in shortwave ultraviolet light. |
| Complex Tests | Soluble in hydrochloric acid. |
| striking features | Formation habits and specific localities. |
| Ambient | Borax evaporite deposits in dry lakes and in sedimentary clay. |
Important deposits
Unlike other minerals, this specimen of nature can be found in only one area of the world discovered to date. We are talking about New Scotland, a Canadian province. There, large nodules are formed from which the gem is extracted for sale.
Despite not being so abundant in the world, its economic cost is still very accessible. It is found directly associated with borax and bauxites.
Howlite Gemstone Meaning
It is one of the precious and semi-precious stones They seem to promote relaxation. It is also said to link with the spiritual dimensions, preparing the mind to receive understanding and wisdom. Of course, these claims lack scientific certification.
However, this has not been an impediment for many people to affirm that it helps them achieve their ambitions.
Howlite stone properties
It is thought to assist out-of-body travel, empowering access to past lives. In the same sense, it opens the memories of other lives if used on the third eye. In the psychological field, theoretically it teaches develop patience, eliminating anger and the anger.
Supposedly, stimulates knowledge Y absorbs negative energies. Once again, they are popular beliefs that have spread in different cultures.
Howlite Mineral Uses
Taking into account its theoretical spiritual properties, it is a very frequent stone in meditation. However, its main use is intended to be a part of collection especially by the fans. Those who begin to acquire authentic gems to fill their showcases look for this rock as one of the first specimens.
Likewise, it is a very attractive stone in the jeweler’s, decorative objects Y ornamental pieces. And as already mentioned, it also serves as a substitute for turquoise.