Howlite Properties
General
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Stone of Reasoning & Discernment
Although cauliflower (or vegetables at all) probably isn’t the first thing that pops into one’s mind when thinking about Howlite, they do actually have a 6 degrees of separation connection. Howlite is found in it’s original state as large cauliflower-like masses. Originally named for Henry How, a 19th century mineralogist, as he was said to be the first to make this discovery in Nova Scotia.
Howlite is a fairly soft gemstone as gemstones go, therefore it takes dye easily; which in turn has allowed Howlite to become an inexpensive alternative to more costly gemstones. It’s natural color is white, gentle and clean with gray and black veins. Dyed with any rich hue of color, it may resemble Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli or Red Coral…one would never have guessed that it began very much resembling a common vegetable.
Scientific Gemstone Properties
Mohs Hardness of 3.5 with a monoclinic crystal structure
Howlite is one of those minerals that is more infamous for imitating other minerals than it is for it’s own qualities. Natural Howlite is always white or gray, it accepts a nice polish, and it’s procelaneous luster is actually quite attractive undyed.
The United States, specifically California, is the source for almost all of the Howlite mineral. Nodules of up to 125 pounds have been found there. It is formed in continental evaporite deposits with other borate and evaporite minerals. It forms in nodules that appear like the heads of cauliflower. Actual crystals faces on the nodules are rare. Veins of black web-like streaks often are interlaced throughout the nodules, adding to their character and appeal.
Howlite is often a confusing mineral to classify. The silicon atom in its formula would normally require its classification as a silicate mineral. Although some classification schemes prefer to place Howlite with other borate minerals in the carbonates class, as it has five borons to only one silicon, and that its character and formation are more in line with other borate minerals.
Metaphysical Gemstone Properties
Howlite is best known for it’s strong associations with self-awareness, creativity, and improving one’s emotional well being and attitudes. It enhances character building, a sense of decency, and encourages the development of desirable personal aspect. In general, Howlite aids in dispelling anger, resentfulness, selfishness, and allows one to look inside the for answers. It also aids in communicating the negative emotions with a clearer emotional expression, which will always result in calmer ‘confrontations’.
It decreases the over critical mind, rudeness and offensive behavior, increasing subtly, decency, and tact. It is also quite helpful for those who tend to procrastinate.
Meditating on a piece of Howlite can assist one in journeying outside the body and gaining insight from ones past lives. Place upon the third eye, it opens memories of previous times and lifetimes.
Healing Gemstone Properties
Howlite is predominantly a calming stone. It will aid in sleeping, calming the overactive mind, eases insomnia, dreaming, dream retention and stress relief.
Physically, it calms the whole body and releases muscle tension. It eliminates pain brought about by stress. And is said to aid in healing stress related injuries such as ulcers, heart problems and rashes.
It is helpful in balancing the calcium levels in the body as well as strengthening teeth and bones.
Magical Gemstone Properties
Energy: Protective
Element: Earth
Planet: Moon
Deities: Quan Yin
Powers: Patience, Peace & Insomnia
Candle Color: Grey
Focusing on a piece of Howlite can assist in journeying outside the body and gaining insight from past lives. Placed on the third eye, it opens memories of previous times and lifetimes.
Zodiac Gemstone Properties
Zodiac Stone of: Gemini & Virgo
Associations: Moon & Earth
Birthstone: Not a birthstone for any month