Howlite
| Colour | White, Clear |
|---|---|
| Mohs hardness | 3.5 |
| Lustre | Subvitreous, glimmering |
| Streak | white |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic |
| Transparency | Translucent |
| Cleavage | None |
| Fracture | Conchoidal, uneven |
| Chemical formula | Ca 2 B 5 SiO 9 (OH) 5 |
| Specific gravity | 2.53 – 2.59 |
What is Howlite?
Howlite, a calcium borosilicate hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5), is a borate mineral found in evaporite deposits.
How to identify Howlite
- Lustre: Subvitreous, glimmering.
- Hardness: Mohs 3.5 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: white.
- Habit: Monoclinic crystal system.
Howlite in different forms
Stones often confused with Howlite
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Howlite?
Howlite is Mohs 3.5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Howlite?
Howlite is typically white, clear (White, colorless).