Not well known to the general public, howlite is one of those minerals that is almost more famous for imitating another mineral. In this case, the other mineral is turquoise, a phosphate gemstone. Howlite is naturally milky white in color and often has dark vein-like mineral inclusions. Because of its porosity, it accepts dye fairly easily, achieving a turquoise-like blue color. Howlite accepts a nice polish and its porcelain-like luster is appealing.
General Information
Tolerance:(+0.003/-0.003)
LWUV: Inert to moderate bluish white or orange; Dyed: Inert to orange
Howlite Colors
-
Blue
-
Brown
-
Colorless
-
Green
-
White
Alternate Names
Howlithe, Turquenite, Dyed Howlite
Countries of Origin
Canada; Turkey; Unknown; China; United States of America; Mexico; South Africa; Slovakia; Serbia; United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland; Germany; Bolivia (Plurinational State of)
Care
Normal care for untreated stones. Soluble dilute acids. Avoid harsh chemicals, ultrasonic cleaners, and steaming for stones that have been dyed.