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Howilite, a calcium borosilicate hydroxide (Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5), is a borate mineral found in evaporite deposits. The most common form of howlite is irregular nodules, sometimes< resembling cauliflower. Howlite is commonly used to make decorative objects such as small carvings or jewelry components. Because of its porous texture, howlite can be easily dyed to imitate other minerals, especially turquoise because of the superficial similarity of the veining patterns. The dyed howlite (or magnesite) is marketed as turquenite. (source: Wikipedia) public domain shared photos by 1) Didier Descouens & 2) Ra'ike photo by Michael Marcotte Return to List Back to Michael's Hobbies page Back to Michael Marcotte's HomePage