Howlite is a captivating mineral known for its stark white color crisscrossed with intricate grey or black veins, giving it a resemblance to marble. It was discovered in 1868 by Canadian chemist Henry How, who the mineral is named after. Howlite forms in irregular nodules that can appear in cauliflower-like masses, and it's often found in evaporite deposits.
Major sources of howlite include Canada, specifically in parts of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, as well as the United States, particularly in California. Howlite is relatively soft, making it ideal for carving and often used in jewelry and decorative items. Due to its porous nature, howlite can be easily dyed to imitate other more expensive stones like turquoise and lapis lazuli, making it a versatile material in the gemstone market.
Howlite is regarded as a stone of calm and tranquility. It is believed to aid in reducing anxiety, tensions, stress, and anger, both from within oneself and from external sources. This makes it particularly useful for those seeking a peaceful mind and a restful sleep. Howlite is thought to help with awareness and encourages emotional expression. Howlite is also associated with improving communication and enhancing creativity. It's believed to foster patience and open-mindedness, traits that are beneficial in both personal and professional relationships. Furthermore, howlite is often used in meditation to assist in connecting with higher spiritual consciousness and accessing wisdom and insights.
