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You are here: Home / Gemstone Legends and Facts / Is it Howlite or is it turquoise?

Is it Howlite or is it turquoise?

June 20, 2024 By Alene Geed Leave a Comment

Howlite Free Form Gems

Hello! I’m Alene, a jewelry designer with a passion for gemstones. Based in Arizona, my studio constantly showcases a variety of stunning stones, including some you may have never heard of before. Today, let’s dive into the captivating world of Howlite.

What is Howlite?

Howlite is a mesmerizing white gemstone with striking black veins that run through its surface. This stone can be found in slab form, often cut to create beautiful cabochons. Depending on how a lapidary artist cuts the stone, the result can emphasize either the pristine white parts or the intricate black veins, showcasing the stone’s unique beauty.

Originally discovered in Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, Howlite can now be found in various locations around the globe. It is an economical gemstone, not cheap, but reasonably priced, making it accessible for many. I do love the simplicity and beauty of this black and white gem.

The Deceptive Practice: Howlite vs. Turquoise

One reason you may not have heard of Howlite is its frequent misidentification. Due to its affordability and appearance, Howlite is often dyed to resemble the more expensive turquoise. When Howlite is dyed blue, the black veins mirror those found in natural turquoise, causing confusion among buyers. I feel sad that this beautiful gem is not given it’s due. In addition, those who purchase the dyed version mistakenly feel they own the more rare form of turquoise. What a shame. Here are a few tips to help you avoid making that error.

Tips for Turquoise Buyers

  • Purchase from reputable sources: Ensure that the seller is trusted and can guarantee that the turquoise is natural.
  • Check for authenticity: Be wary of deals that seem too good to be true. Genuine turquoise will often be higher in price due to its rarity and beauty.

The Natural Beauty of Howlite

Despite its common counterfeiting, Howlite in its natural state is incredibly beautiful. Its calming white color juxtaposed with black veins makes it a stunning addition to any piece of jewelry. Whether paired with vibrant gems or classic stones like onyx, Howlite stands out with elegance.

Howlite in the Rough. Isn’t it stunning?

Howlite and Onyx: A Perfect Pairing

When combined with black onyx, Howlite’s beauty is significantly enhanced. The contrast between the pure white stone and the deep black onyx creates a visually striking piece that is sure to catch the eye.

I also love pairing this gem with more bold and vibrant gems like rich deep orange Carnelian or luscious purple amethyst.

Benefits and Significance of Howlite

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Howlite is known for its soothing properties. It is often considered a calming stone, believed to aid in breathing and promote tranquility. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to add a touch of serenity to their lives.

Birthstone for Gemini

Geminis, take note! Howlite is recognized as your birthstone. Wearing Howlite can be a lovely way to express your astrological sign while enjoying the stone’s calming benefits.

Howlite and Wellness

Howlite is known as the “calming stone” and is said to have a soothing and peaceful energy.  Some believe it can help with feelings of being overwhelmed. Howlite creates a tranquil atmosphere; releasing stress.

Wearing Howlite is often equated to spending an hour in a wellness spa. Imagine that level of relaxation infused into your daily life simply by accessorizing with this gemstone. Personally, I think wearing Howlite and still visiting a wellness spa sounds like the best of both worlds!

Conclusion

In summary, Howlite is a gemstone that offers both beauty and benefits. Whether you are drawn to its calming properties or its striking appearance, it is a stone worth considering for your jewelry collection. If you are intrigued and want to explore more gemstones or learn about Howlite in greater depth, I invite you to connect with me further. I invite you to experience serenity when you wear this gem!

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Filed Under: Gemstone Legends and Facts Tagged With: Arizona, artisan, gemstone, handmade jewelry, jewelry design, one-of-a-kind, Southwest, turquoise

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Arizona jewelry designer. I work with copper, silver, gold and steel. Plus LOTS of gemstones! I Love to Hammer, play with Fire 😊🔨 & read📚

Loving the way these free-form earrings dangle! On Loving the way these free-form earrings dangle! One of a kind and handmade in my Arizona studio #gemstonejewelry #oneofakindjewelry #jewelryaddict
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Buried Treasure. Golden Steel 18K gold and amethys Buried Treasure. Golden Steel 18K gold and amethyst Earrings  Combining the strength of steel with the luster and beauty of 18k gold,. This pair features a heart shaped faceted amethyst gemstone from my 'Buried Treasure' collection.
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Peek inside my studio . Soldering pan. www.alenesa Peek inside my studio . Soldering pan. www.alenesadornments.com #jewelrystudio #jewelrylover #artisanjewelry  #gemstonejewelry  #statementjewelry
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two new bolos in progress. Both from the Patriot c two new bolos in progress. Both from the Patriot collection #bolotie #handmadejewelry #arizonajeweler
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Cloud Dreams Heart Shaped Plume Agate and Topaz Pe Cloud Dreams Heart Shaped Plume Agate and Topaz Pendant. Have you ever spent a lazy afternoon gazing at the clouds on a sunny day…picking out shapes, naming them, dreaming, and having fun? This is the spirit that inspired me to create my CLOUD DREAMS collection.
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This collection is created to remind us; Take time to be a child again.
Desert Sands Collection. Picture jasper is known f Desert Sands Collection. Picture jasper is known for the intricate patterns in the stone. Often they resemble images from ancient civilizations. This pendant is created with a heart shaped gem and features a cutout heart in the back. I love the rich earth tones in this gem!
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𝐃𝐢𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰? 𝐏𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐣𝐚𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭 𝐃𝐢𝐝 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰? 𝐏𝐢𝐜𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐣𝐚𝐬𝐩𝐞𝐫 𝐢𝐬 𝐤𝐧𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐚𝐬 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐨𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐬𝐭𝐨𝐧𝐞. Picture jasper is known for the intricate patterns in the stone. Often they resemble images from ancient civilizations. This pendant features extra tallgem along with Swarovski Crystal and a textured sterling silver chain.
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Celebrate your pride in the USA. Wear a design fro Celebrate your pride in the USA. Wear a design from my Patriot collection #usamade #handmadejewelry

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Sarah Mckinney

Alene has a gift for creating the perfect, unique piece of jewelry. Her ability to combine copper and sterling creates pieces of jewelry that are second to none. Alene then adds pops of color to create a piece that will call your name. Always eagerly await her new designs to see what new amazing piece will call my name.

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I really enjoy wearing my ‘Alene’s Adornments’ spiral earrings. They’re exactly what I want and like in an earring: authentic materials, light weight and beautiful design. I look forward to adding the next item to my collection of Alene’s creations. I highly recommend shopping here if you want beautiful jewelry, along with great service!

Reba Linker

I have bought several sets of earrings designed and made by Alene over the past few years. I am happy with the design and quality of all. Get many compliments when I wear them. also, once ordered the merchandise arrives on time.  Would highly recommend purchasing one of her designs.  Rating “5”.

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