Howlite, with its distinctive white color marbled with web-like grey, black, or brown veins, is a captivating gemstone known for its calming properties. It is often used to aid in sleeping, calming the overactive mind, and for meditation practices. Howlite's soothing energy promotes patience, reduces stress and anger, and enhances awareness and emotional expression.
Howlite is a borate mineral that is found in evaporite deposits and has a porous structure, making it ideal for dyeing; thus, it's commonly used as an imitation of more expensive stones like turquoise. It has a relatively low hardness of about 3.5 on the Mohs scale, which necessitates careful handling when used in jewelry. Howlite is primarily sourced from Canada, specifically in parts of Nova Scotia and Newfoundland, but it can also be found in the United States, particularly in California.
Discovered in 1868 by Canadian chemist Henry How, Howlite was initially called "silicoborocalcite" due to its composition but was later renamed in How's honor. While not having a long history of use in ancient cultures like other gemstones, Howlite has gained popularity in the modern era for its aesthetic appeal and metaphysical properties. It is often used in jewelry, decorative objects, and as a carving stone for small sculptures and figurines.
Howlite is believed to possess powerful spiritual properties. It is associated with the crown chakra and is said to be a stone of awareness, giving the wearer or user the gift of wisdom and enlightenment. It is thought to absorb anger, whether directed towards oneself or others, and promote positive emotional expression. Howlite is also associated with improving communication, understanding, and patience, making it beneficial for those seeking to strengthen relationships and reduce conflict. Additionally, its calming energy is said to aid in sleep and meditation, assisting in accessing or recalling dreams.
Howlite pairs well with gemstones that complement its tranquil and enlightening qualities. Lapis Lazuli, known for enhancing truth and self-awareness, amplifies Howlite's properties of wisdom and emotional expression. Amethyst, with its calming and protective energy, can enhance meditation and spiritual connection when used alongside Howlite. Pairing Howlite with Rose Quartz can further promote inner peace and love, creating a harmonious balance of energies for emotional healing and communication.
Given its relative softness, Howlite requires careful handling to maintain its appearance. It should be cleaned using only a soft, damp cloth without any harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. Avoid soaking Howlite in water, as its porosity can lead to damage. It's also advisable to keep Howlite away from prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, which can affect its color. When storing, place Howlite separately from harder gemstones to prevent scratches, ideally in a soft pouch or a padded jewelry box.
A Howlite bracelet offers not only a visually striking accessory but also a source of calming and enlightening energy. Its unique appearance, with contrasting veins against a white backdrop, makes it a versatile piece that can complement any outfit. Wearing a Howlite bracelet can promote a sense of peace and understanding throughout the day, aiding in stress reduction and enhancing communication. It serves as a gentle reminder to practice patience and mindfulness, making it a meaningful addition to anyone's jewelry collection.
