Black Howlite (Dyed Magnesite)
Magnesite var. Howlite (commonly sold as Black Howlite) · Decorative Stone / Semi-Precious Jewelry
Crystal System
Trigonal (Magnesite) or Monoclinic (Howlite); carved into a faceted hexagonal pillar/pendant habit
Mineral Group
Carbonates (Magnesite) or Borates (Howlite)
Chemical Formula
MgCO3 (Magnesite) or Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5 (Howlite), artificially dyed black with white matrix veins
Formation Process
Sedimentary and hydrothermal alteration environments, typically formed as nodules or compact masses in magnesium-rich or evaporite settings
About This Crystal
A polished pendant cut into a top-drilled hexagonal crystal point shape. The stone is a solid matte to semi-lustrous black color featuring an intricate web of fine, contrasting white veins resembling spiderweb patterns. It is held by a silver-tone metal bail.
Physical Characteristics
Black body color with white veining; white streak; no true cleavage in its altered massive state; conchoidal to uneven fracture; specific gravity around 3.0 for magnesite; brittle tenacity; opaque transparency; vitreous to waxy luster when polished
Optical Properties
Uniaxial negative (for magnesite); double refraction (birefringence) is strong; no pleochroism due to fine-grained massive aggregation and artificial dye
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Magnesite and howlite are commonly sourced from the USA, China, South Africa, and Austria; the item is typically manufactured and carved in China or India
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 3.5 to 4.5 (fairly soft, scratches easily with a knife or copper coin); low durability for daily ring wear, better suited for pendants and earrings
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, damp cloth and mild soap; avoid ultrasonic cleaners, steam, and harsh chemical solvents or prolonged exposure to water which can degrade the dye; store separately from harder gems
Rarity & Value
Common and inexpensive; widely available as tumbled stones and carved jewelry pendants; value is very low, typically ranging from a few dollars to twenty dollars
Special Characteristics
Enhanced appearance via black dyeing of a naturally porous, white, veined mineral matrix to create high-contrast decorative patterns
Lore & History
In modern crystal healing, black howlite (often treated as black turquoise or black marble substitute in commerce) is associated with stress relief, calming an overactive mind, and promoting patience and emotional expression. Connected primarily with the root chakra in alternative practices.