Stone guide · Howlite
A soft white stone with fine grey veins. Howlite is calm, clean and easy to pair with almost anything, and it is the most honest chameleon in jewelry.
What it is
Howlite is a white mineral with a web of thin grey or black veins. It was named after the Canadian geologist Henry How, who found it in Nova Scotia in the 1860s. It is soft, around 3.5 on the Mohs scale, but it is dense and takes a smooth finish.
Why white howlite takes color
Howlite is porous, so it absorbs dye very well. That is why you often see it sold in bright blue as a turquoise look-alike. We keep our white howlite natural and pair it with real stones like African turquoise, so what you see is what you get.
How to style it
- With sodalite: white and deep blue, fresh and Greek.
- With lava stone: bright against dark texture.
- With amazonite: pale, cool and soft.
- With hematite: white against metallic grey, clean and modern.
Care
- It is soft, so keep it away from keys and hard surfaces.
- Wipe with a dry or barely damp cloth.
- Avoid soaking, as the stone is porous.
- Keep it away from perfume and chemicals.
Questions people ask
Is howlite a real stone?
Yes, it is a natural mineral. Only the bright blue versions are dyed.
Is howlite fragile?
It is softer than quartz, so avoid knocks. Silver settings and careful wear keep it looking good.
Can I wear howlite in water?
Short contact is fine, but remove it for swimming and showers, as the stone is porous.
Does howlite suit men?
Yes. White against dark stones like lava and onyx is a popular men's combination.