Howlite

“Old patterns of destruction are released forever from my mind.”

— Howlite Affirmation

Howlite is a relatively young discovery in the realm of minerals, first unearthed in 1868 by a Canadian geologist, Henry How. The stone was named in his honor, a tribute to his contribution to mineralogy. Howlite is a borate mineral found primarily in evaporite deposits alongside gypsum and halite. Its geological origin is a testament to the transformative power of the Earth, as it forms through the evaporation of water in enclosed basins, leaving behind a rich tapestry of minerals.

Physically, Howlite is a study in contrasts. It is typically white or gray, with a spiderweb of black or dark brown veins running through it, creating a marbled effect that is both striking and soothing. Its hardness is relatively low, around 3.5 on the Mohs scale, making it somewhat delicate and requiring careful handling. Yet, despite its softness, it is also resilient, able to withstand the passage of time and the elements.

The stone’s porous nature makes it an excellent absorber of dyes, and it is often colored to resemble other stones, most notably turquoise. This ability to transform its appearance has led to its use in various decorative and artistic applications, from jewelry to sculpture. Yet, it is in its natural form that Howlite truly shines, its unique patterns reflecting the intricate processes that led to its creation.

In the metaphysical realm, Howlite is revered as a stone of awareness, believed to stimulate the desire for knowledge and strengthen memory. It is often used in meditative practices, its calming energy thought to aid in attaining wisdom and insight. The stone’s marbled appearance is seen as a physical representation of this spiritual journey, the dark veins symbolizing the challenges and obstacles we must navigate on our path to enlightenment.

Howlite is also associated with the element of air, which represents intellect, communication, and spiritual connection in many earth-based traditions. Its calming energy is said to soothe turbulent emotions and encourage patience, making it a valuable tool for those seeking to enhance their emotional intelligence.

In crystal healing, Howlite is often used to alleviate stress and anxiety, its soothing energy is believed to promote a sense of peace and tranquility. It is also thought to aid sleep, with some practitioners recommending placing a piece of Howlite under the pillow to encourage restful and insightful dreams.

• Physical Attributes

  • Typically white or colorless with gray or black veins running through it in an erratic, often web-like pattern. This gives it a somewhat marble-like appearance.

  • A borate mineral. It crystallizes in the monoclinic crystal system, characterized by three unequal axes with one oblique intersection.

  • Usually opaque, which means it does not allow light to pass through it.

  • Has a hardness of about 3.5 on the Mohs scale, which makes it relatively soft.

  • When polished, Howlite exhibits a subvitreous to dull luster. It’s not as shiny as some minerals but has a certain glow or sheen.

  • Usually found in evaporite deposits, which are sedimentary rocks formed by the evaporation of water. It’s often associated with other borate minerals such as borax and ulexite.

  • One of the most unique features of Howlite is its ability to be dyed and pass as other minerals. Its natural veining can give dyed Howlite the appearance of turquoise or lapis lazuli.

• Metaphysical Properties

  • Calming Energy: Howlite is often called “The Stone of Calm”. It’s believed to help soothe an overactive mind and to alleviate stress and anxiety. This makes it a popular stone for meditation, as it promotes serenity and a peaceful state of mind.

  • Spiritual Connection: Howlite enhances spiritual communication and heightens awareness. It’s often used to open the third eye chakra, associated with intuition, wisdom, and the ability to see and understand spiritual truths.

  • Dream Recall: This stone is also associated with dreams. It’s believed to aid in dream recall and understanding the messages and lessons within dreams. Some people place Howlite under their pillow to promote this effect.

  • Patience and Self-Awareness: Howlite is said to help develop patience and positivity. It’s believed to assist in eliminating rage and uncontrolled anger, and to replace these feelings with self-awareness and calm.

  • Pain and Insomnia Relief: In physical healing, Howlite is often used to remedy insomnia, especially when an overactive mind causes it. Some also believe it can help alleviate physical pain and balance calcium levels in the body.

  • Past Life Recall: Some practitioners use Howlite to access past-life memories, believing it can help them understand their current life path and purpose.

• Magical Correspondences

  • Element: Air

  • Chakra: Crown (Sahasrara) and Third Eye (Ajna)

  • Astrology Signs: Gemini

  • Planets: Moon

  • Colors: White

  • Days: Wednesday

  • Incense: Lavender and Chamomile

  • Herbs: Chamomile, Lavender, or Lemon Balm,

  • Crystal Grids: Calming, Spiritual Connection, Enhancing Intuition, Peaceful Communication, or Dream Work.

  • Spiritual Qualities: Promoting calmness, patience, and better communication. It also enhances memory and facilitates deep meditation and dream work.

  • Magical Intentions: Calm an overactive mind, Reduce Anxiety, Enhance Meditation, Foster Patience, Dream Recall.