Dyed Howlite (often sold as Turquoise or White Turquoise)
Howlite · Decorative Stone / Semi-Precious Substitute
Crystal System
Monoclinic; typically occurs as massive nodules, rarely as small prismatic crystals
Mineral Group
Borates
Chemical Formula
Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5
Formation Process
Sedimentary/Evaporite; forms in boron-rich evaporite deposits, typically in playa lakes and borate deposits
About This Crystal
This specimen is a carved and polished double-terminated hexagonal-style point pendant made from howlite that has been dyed a vibrant robin-egg blue. It features a prominent dark web-like matrix (spiderweb pattern) which mimics the appearance of high-grade turquoise.
Physical Characteristics
Color: Bright turquoise blue with dark grey to black veins (dyed); Streak: White; Cleavage: None observed; Fracture: Sub-conchoidal to uneven; Specific Gravity: 2.53 to 2.59; Tenacity: Brittle
Optical Properties
Refractive Index: 1.586 - 1.605; Birefringence: 0.018 - 0.020; Opaque to translucent with a sub-vitreous to dull luster
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Nova Scotia, Canada; California, USA; various locations in South Africa and Turkey
Hardness & Durability
Mohs Hardness: 3.5; Low durability; scratches easily with a knife or copper coin; soft and porous, making it sensitive to wear and harsh chemicals
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a soft, damp cloth only; avoid harsh chemicals, detergents, ultrasonic cleaners, and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight and water, as moisture and chemicals can degrade the dye
Rarity & Value
Common; natural howlite is widely available and inexpensive, though it is frequently enhanced with blue dye to simulate more expensive turquoise; typical jewelry pieces range from low to moderate cost
Special Characteristics
Porous structure readily absorbs dyes, allowing it to convincingly imitate more valuable gemstones like turquoise or chrysocolla
Lore & History
Often used in crystal healing as a stone of ultimate calm, stress relief, and to aid with insomnia and anger management. Associated with the Crown Chakra in traditional lore. Note: These are traditional belief systems and cultural symbolisms, not scientific claims.