Howlite Ca2B5Si09(OH)5 Silicates and Carbonates Group

Physical Featureshttp1. Color- White.

2. Streak- White.

3. Luster- Subvitreous.

4. Cleavage- None.

5. Transparency- Translucent to opaque.

6. Fracture- Conchoidal to uneven.

7. Hardness- 3.5.

8. Form-Nodular masses.

9. Crystal system-- Monoclinic.

In 1868 Canadian Chemist Henry Howe discovered the mineral Howlite, hence the name. Howlite is a calcium borosilicate hydroxide, which occurs in continental evaporite deposits. Many times Howlite is found with other borate and evaporite minerals, such as colemanite, ulexite, anhydrite, gypsum, and clays. Some say the Howlite imitates the mineral turquiose, especially when dyed. California and Canada hold the largest deposit's of Howlite, but can be found all over the world.