Howlite: The Stone of Stillness, Awareness, and Patience
- D'Crystals
- Jul 23
- 2 min read
Mineralogy
Howlite is a borate mineral composed of calcium borosilicate hydroxide with the formula Ca₂B₅SiO₉(OH)₅. It is typically white or light gray with elegant gray or black veining, resembling marble. In its natural state, Howlite is opaque and porous, making it ideal for dyeing — especially to imitate turquoise.
Origin
First discovered in Nova Scotia, Canada, Howlite is now also mined in the United States (California), Germany, Mexico, and Turkey. It commonly forms in nodules resembling cauliflower, often near borate deposits.
Historical Beliefs (Chinese & Western)
In Chinese energy traditions, Howlite is linked to calming internal chaos and aligning spiritual energy, especially for those prone to overthinking or insomnia.
In Western metaphysical circles, Howlite is known as the "Stone of Stillness." It is often used in meditation to calm the mind, reduce stress, and cultivate wisdom. Ancient lore also associates it with absorbing anger and fostering patience.
Crystal System & Family
Howlite belongs to the monoclinic crystal system and is classified as a borate mineral. Despite its soft appearance, it maintains structural resilience, making it ideal for beads and carvings.
Wu Xing Element
Howlite is aligned with the Metal element in Wu Xing (五行), symbolizing clarity, discipline, and emotional purity. It is especially useful during introspection and for establishing mental boundaries.
Healing Properties
Emotional Calm – Helps reduce anger, anxiety, and impulsivity
Spiritual Awareness – Supports meditation and dream recall
Sleep Aid – Promotes restful sleep and reduces insomnia
Patience & Perspective – Encourages tolerance and emotional control
Types of Howlite
Type | Appearance | Uses |
Natural Howlite | White with grey/black veins | Meditation, grounding, clarity |
Dyed Howlite | Turquoise/blue/green tint | Fashion pieces, throat chakra focus |
Identification
Color: White or light gray with black/gray webbing
Hardness: 3.5 on the Mohs scale
Luster: Sub-vitreous to dull
Transparency: Opaque
Special Trait: Often dyed to mimic turquoise, but can be identified by matrix and cool-to-touch feel
Benefits of Howlite Products
Bracelets & Beads: Ideal for daily wear to ease tension and maintain calm
Palm Stones: Perfect for meditation, stress relief, and sleep rituals
Spheres & Carvings: Beautify space while cleansing mental clutter
Tumbled Stones: Portable calming tools for travel or work
Bracelet Size
Available in 14–18 cm lengths. Beads are polished to a silky finish and strung on durable elastic cord. Suitable for everyday wear, but avoid soaking in water due to Howlite’s porous nature.
Did You Know?
Although often mistaken for marble or turquoise, Howlite is its own unique mineral. Jewelers frequently dye it blue to create "Turquenite" — a cost-effective and visually similar alternative to turquoise.
Where to Buy
Explore our hand-selected collection of Howlite crystals, jewelry, and calming tools at D Crystals. Whether you’re seeking emotional grounding or a minimalist white aesthetic, Howlite offers both energy and elegance.
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