Howlite
What is Howlite?

Howlite is a borate mineral made of irregular nodules and a monoclinic structure. Also known as Magnesite, Howlite has a porous texture and is normally creamy white with dark or silver veins.
Howlite received its name from the man who discovered it, Henry How, although it is also known as White Buffalo, Sacred Buffalo, White Turquoise, Kaolinite, Lapis Howlite, and most recently Snow Leopard Stone. This is due to its resemblance to the fur of the stunning large cat of Central and South Asia.
This stone has been found and mined in every corner of the world, however, it is most commonly found in Nova Scotia, the USA, Germany, Namibia, Pakistan, Turkey, Russia, and along the coasts of Mexico.
The Howlite crystal brings with it deep patience and perspective for those that need to slow down, clear their mind of distractions, and live a more mindful way of life. The white of Howlite ushers in peace and clarity, while its black lines suggest that the mind is focused.
Howlite’s magic offers a great sense of relaxation and aids in unwinding even in the most stressful of times. Because it helps to focus the mind, it clears away any unwanted thoughts or ideas. It is the perfect tool to assist in overcoming emotional distress.
When using the Howlite crystal as an aid in daily meditation and as a spiritual tool, it has the power to transport you to snow-packed mountain ranges, where the spirit will feel united with nature under a blanket of white, bringing a sense of calm and peace over the mind and body.
Chemical Classification | Inorganic - Borate mineral |
Color | White to grayish-white with gray, black, or brown veins. |
Streak | White |
Luster | Sub-vitreous to dull |
Transparency | Opaque |
Occurrence | 1. Canada 2. USA 3. Mexico |
Formation | Found in nodules or as tabular crystals in evaporite deposits. |
Diaphaneity | Opaque |
Cleavage | Perfect |
Mohs Hardness | 3.5 |
Specific Gravity | Approximately 2.45 to 2.58 |
Diagnostic Properties | White color with gray to black veins, often dyed to imitate turquoise. |
Chemical Composition | Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5 |
Pleochroism | Not pleochroic. |
Crystal System | Monoclinic |
Optical Properties | Biaxial (-) |
Refractive Index | 1.586 - 1.605 |
Birefringence | 0.023 |
2V angle | Measured: 24° to 56° |
Dispersion | Not typically provided for opaque minerals like Howlite. |