Howlite is a borate mineral that forms as thin veins within a sedimentary rock formation known as a stromatolite. Named after the Canadian chemist Henry How, who first described the mineral in 1868, howlite has since gained popularity as a gemstone due to its white to off-white coloration and intricate vein patterns, which often resemble those of turquoise. However, howlite is not to be confused with true turquoise, as the two minerals differ significantly in composition and properties.
Howlite VS. Turquoise: The Key Differences
Feature | Howlite | Turquoise |
---|---|---|
Composition | Calcium borosilicate hydroxide | Copper aluminium phosphate |
Color | White to off-white | Blue to green |
Hardness | 3.5 – 4 | 5 – 6 |
Specific gravity | 2.5 – 2.6 | 2.6 – 2.8 |
Crystal structure | Monoclinic | Triclinic |
Occurrence | Found in sedimentary rock formations | Found in copper-bearing rocks |
Value | Less valuable than turquoise | More valuable than howlite |
How to Tell Howlite Apart from Turquoise
One of the most notable differences between howlite and turquoise is their color. While howlite is typically white to off-white, turquoise can range in color from light blue to dark green. Additionally, howlite often has a chalky appearance, while turquoise is more opaque and lustrous.
Another way to distinguish between howlite and turquoise is by their hardness. Howlite is softer than turquoise, with a hardness of 3.5 – 4 on the Mohs scale, while turquoise has a hardness of 5 – 6. This means that howlite can be scratched more easily than turquoise.
Finally, howlite and turquoise differ in their specific gravity. Howlite has a specific gravity of 2.5 – 2.6, while turquoise has a specific gravity of 2.6 – 2.8. This means that howlite is slightly less dense than turquoise.
Howlite: A Versatile Gemstone with Many Uses
Despite being less valuable than turquoise, howlite is still a popular gemstone due to its versatility and affordability. It is often used in jewelry, such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Additionally, howlite is used in carvings, figurines, and other decorative objects.
Howlite in Jewelry
Howlite is a popular choice for jewelry due to its white to off-white coloration, which makes it easy to match with other gemstones and metals. Additionally, howlite is relatively affordable, making it a good option for those on a budget.
Howlite in Carvings
Howlite is also used in carvings, figurines, and other decorative objects. Its soft texture makes it easy to carve, and its white to off-white coloration provides a good backdrop for intricate designs.
The Benefits of Howlite
In addition to its versatility and affordability, howlite is also believed to have a number of metaphysical benefits. These benefits include:
- Calming and soothing properties
- Reduces stress and anxiety
- Promotes relaxation and sleep
- Enhances communication and self-expression
- Strengthens the immune system
How to Use Howlite
There are many ways to use howlite, including:
- Wearing howlite jewelry
- Placing howlite crystals around your home or office
- Meditating with howlite
- Using howlite in feng shui
Tips and Tricks for Using Howlite
Here are a few tips and tricks for using howlite:
- Choose howlite jewelry that is made from high-quality materials.
- Avoid exposing howlite to harsh chemicals or sunlight, as this can damage the stone.
- Clean howlite regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap.
- Charge howlite regularly by placing it in the sun or moonlight.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using Howlite
Here are a few common mistakes to avoid when using howlite:
- Do not wear howlite jewelry if you have sensitive skin, as it may cause irritation.
- Do not use howlite to treat medical conditions, as it is not a substitute for professional medical care.
- Do not expose howlite to extreme heat or cold, as this can damage the stone.
Why Howlite Matters
Howlite is a beautiful and versatile gemstone with a number of metaphysical benefits. It is a good choice for those who are looking for an affordable and easy-to-care-for gemstone.
How to Improve Your Experience with Howlite
Here are a few tips for improving your experience with howlite:
- Experiment with different ways to use howlite, such as wearing it in jewelry, placing it around your home or office, or meditating with it.
- Pay attention to how howlite makes you feel, and adjust your usage accordingly.
- Be patient, as it may take some time to notice the benefits of howlite.
Reviews
“I love howlite! It’s such a beautiful and calming stone. I wear howlite jewelry every day, and I can definitely feel its positive energy.” – Sarah J.
“Howlite has helped me to reduce my stress and anxiety. I meditate with howlite every night, and it always helps me to relax and sleep better.” – John B.
“I use howlite in feng shui to create a more positive and harmonious environment in my home. I love how it makes my home feel more inviting and peaceful.” – Mary M.
Future Trending
Howlite is becoming increasingly popular as a gemstone due to its versatility, affordability, and metaphysical benefits. In the future, we can expect to see howlite used in an even wider variety of applications, such as:
- Jewelry
- Carvings
- Figurines
- Decorative objects
- Feng shui
Conclusion
Howlite is a beautiful and versatile gemstone with a number of metaphysical benefits. It is a good choice for those who are looking for an affordable and easy-to-care-for gemstone. By following the tips and tricks in this article, you can improve your experience with howlite and enjoy its many benefits for years to come.
Additional Information
- How to Identify Howlite: Howlite can be identified by its white to off-white coloration, intricate vein patterns, and chalky appearance.
- Where to Find Howlite: Howlite is found in sedimentary rock formations around the world.
- How to Care for Howlite: Howlite should be cleaned regularly with a soft cloth and mild soap. Avoid exposing howlite to harsh chemicals or sunlight, as this can damage the stone.
- Metaphysical Benefits of Howlite: Howlite is believed to have a number of metaphysical benefits, including calming and soothing properties, reducing stress and anxiety, promoting relaxation and sleep, enhancing communication and self-expression, and strengthening the immune system.