Howlite Value, Price, and Jewelry Information

Optics:  a = 1.583-1.586;  β= 1.596-1.598;  γ= 1.605.

Biaxial (-), 2V large.

Occurrence: Microscopic crystals or nodules occur in arid regions or borate deposits.

California: abundant nodules, up to a weight of several hundred pounds, as at Lang in Los Angeles County Also occurs in the Mohave Desert, California. Nova Scotia: small nodules.

Comments: Howlite is always opaque in nodules; it is an abundant material and easy to acquire. Sometimes it contains black, threadlike impurities resembling the veining in turquoise. Howlite is frequently dyed blue to resemble turquoise, and it makes a most convincing simulant. The white material is relatively unexciting in appearance.

Name: After H. How who described a mineral of approximately the same composition.

Joel E. Arem, Ph.D., FGA

Dr. Joel E. Arem has more than 60 years of experience in the world of gems and minerals. After obtaining his Ph.D. in Mineralogy from Harvard University, he has published numerous books that are still among the most widely used references and guidebooks on crystals, gems and minerals in the world.

Co-founder and President of numerous organizations, Dr. Arem has enjoyed a lifelong career in mineralogy and gemology. He has been a Smithsonian scientist and Curator, a consultant to many well-known companies and institutions, and a prolific author and speaker. Although his main activities have been as a gem cutter and dealer, his focus has always been education. joelarem.com

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