Howlite, white

Howlite is a fascinating white mineral that is often characterized by a fine, marble-like pattern with gray or black veins. The composition consists mainly of calcium borosilicate hydroxide, which gives howlite its special color pattern and makes it relatively easy to polish. The mineral is named after the Canadian geologist Henry How, who discovered it in Nova Scotia in the 19th century.

Howlite is usually found in sedimentary rocks, where it forms in layers as part of evaporite deposits, which occurs when water evaporates, leaving minerals behind. It is primarily mined in Canada and parts of the United States, such as California, but has also been found in Turkey, Russia and Germany. Howlite is soft, with a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, and is well suited for carving and jewelry design.

The Howlit is sold individually, and size and color will vary.