Dyed Howlite (sold as Turquenite or imitation Turquoise)
Howlite · Decorative Stone / Semi-Precious Imitation
Crystal System
Monoclinic; typically found as massive nodules, rarely as small prismatic crystals
Mineral Group
Borates
Chemical Formula
Ca2Si5B5O9(OH)5
Formation Process
Evaporite deposits, forming in borate-rich saline lakes and sedimentary beds under arid conditions
About This Crystal
The specimen is carved and polished into a faceted hexagonal pendant point (often called a crystal wand or bullet). It features a bright Robin's egg blue or turquoise color with a network of dark, web-like matrix veins running through it. This specific appearance is achieved by dyeing porous white howlite to mimic natural turquoise.
Physical Characteristics
Color is robin's egg blue with dark grey to black spiderweb matrix lines. Streak is white. Cleavage is none distinct. Fracture is subconchoidal to uneven. Specific gravity is approximately 2.53 to 2.59. Tenacity is brittle. Luster is sub-vitreous to dull or chalky.
Optical Properties
Biaxial (+), refractive index ranges from 1.583 to 1.605, birefringence is around 0.018 to 0.022. It is opaque to translucent.
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Nova Scotia, Canada; California and Nevada, USA; Germany
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness is 3.5 for natural howlite, making it quite soft and easily scratched by a copper coin or knife. When used in jewelry, it requires careful handling and protective settings to avoid abrasion.
Care & Maintenance
Clean gently with warm, soapy water and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemical cleaners, ultrasonic cleaners, and steam cleaning. Because the stone is dyed, prolonged exposure to direct sunlight or harsh chemicals can cause the color to fade.
Rarity & Value
Howlite itself is common and very affordable. Mass-produced carved crystal points like this pendant are inexpensive, typically ranging from a few dollars to twenty dollars depending on the metal bailing and craftsmanship.
Special Characteristics
Porous structure which readily absorbs dyes, making it one of the most common substitutes for more expensive turquoise.
Lore & History
In crystal healing traditions, howlite is considered an extremely calming stone, often used to relieve stress, anxiety, and insomnia. When dyed blue and worn as a pendant, it is sometimes used to stimulate the throat chakra, though these are traditional beliefs and not scientifically validated.