Howlite is a soft white mineral often marked with natural gray or black veining, giving it a calm, marbled appearance. It was first identified in the 19th century and named after Canadian chemist and geologist Henry How.
Howlite is commonly found in Canada, the United States, Mexico, and parts of Europe. Because of its light color and ability to take dye easily, it is sometimes dyed and sold under other names. Natural, undyed Howlite retains a soft, matte white tone with subtle veining.
In its natural form, Howlite is appreciated for its understated beauty and its quiet, stabilizing presence rather than visual intensity.
Howlite is a calcium borosilicate hydroxide mineral that crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system. It typically forms as nodules or massive material rather than well-defined crystals.
The dark veining seen in Howlite is the result of other minerals filling natural fissures within the stone during formation. Its porous structure contributes to its softness and susceptibility to staining or dyeing.
Physical Properties
Property
Value
Mineral Species
Howlite
Chemical Formula
Ca₂B₅SiO₉(OH)₅
Crystal System
Monoclinic
Hardness (Mohs Scale)
3.5
Luster
Dull to vitreous
Transparency
Opaque
Typical Form
Massive, nodular
Structural Notes
Due to its softness and porosity, Howlite is best appreciated in polished or tumbled form and should be handled with care.
Howlite is traditionally regarded as a stone of calm communication, diplomacy, and emotional awareness. Its energy is gentle yet effective, encouraging thoughtful action and considerate expression.
Communication, Courtesy & Diplomacy
Howlite smooths communication by increasing awareness of one’s words, tone, and actions. It is often used to:
Encourage polite and respectful dialogue
Diffuse conflict and emotional tension
Promote understanding during difficult conversations
Because of this, Howlite is commonly referred to as a stone of diplomacy.
Practical Exercise — Conflict Soothing
Hold Howlite in the hand during a challenging discussion.
Take slow, steady breaths.
Pause before speaking and notice emotional reactions.
Allow responses to come from calm awareness rather than impulse.
Stress Reduction & Nervous System Calm
Howlite is especially valued for its ability to reduce stress and soothe the nerves. It helps quiet mental chatter and emotional overload, making it useful during periods of anxiety, overwhelm, or heightened sensitivity.
Practical Exercise — Third Eye Calm
Lie down comfortably.
Place Howlite gently on the Third Eye.
Breathe slowly and evenly.
Allow tension to dissolve without effort.
Sleep Support & Restful States
Placing Howlite under the pillow is a traditional practice for encouraging deep, peaceful sleep. Its calming influence is believed to quiet the mind, ease restlessness, and support restorative rest.
Howlite Crystal Pairings & Synergy
Howlite pairs well with stones that support grounding and emotional balance.
It works especially well alongside Black Tourmaline for grounding calm energy, Clear Quartz to clarify intention, and Selenite for gentle mental clarity.
Howlite Cleansing & Charging — Soft & Gentle
⚠️ Important: Howlite is sensitive to moisture and chemicals.
Recommended crystal-safe options:
Moonlight: gentle overnight exposure.
Sound: soft tones or bells.
Rest: allow quiet downtime between uses.
Summary
Howlite is a calming, considerate, and quietly powerful stone. By smoothing communication, easing stress, and encouraging diplomacy, it supports peaceful interaction with others and gentle awareness within oneself—making it an excellent companion for both daily life and restful sleep.