Black Howlite: Meanings, Properties, Facts and More!

Black Howlite is a mineral commonly used for ornamental and decorative purposes. Its black color and white veins make it a popular choice for jewelry, carvings, and other decorative objects. But beyond its aesthetic appeal, it has gained popularity in the spiritual community for its believed properties and meanings.

In this article, we will delve into the properties and meanings of Black Howlite. We will explore its physical characteristics, historical uses, as well as its metaphysical properties. Additionally, we will discuss how it can be used for spiritual purposes such as healing and meditation.

Whether you are a collector or simply curious about this intriguing mineral, this article aims to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of Black Howlite.

What is Black Howlite?

Black Howlite is a mineral that is commonly used in jewelry making due to its unique appearance and properties. It belongs to the borate group, and its chemical composition consists of calcium borosilicate hydroxide.

The gemstone typically has a white or light grey base color with black or dark grey veining throughout, creating a striking contrast. Despite its name, it is not naturally occurring; it is often dyed to achieve its distinctive coloring. However, it still retains many of the same properties as natural Howlite.

The Origins of Black Howlite

The history of black howlite is not well-documented, but it is believed to have been first discovered in Canada in the 1800s. It was named after Canadian mineralogist Henry How, who identified it as a separate mineral from gypsum.

Since then, it has been found in other parts of the world, including the United States and Mexico. It is a relatively new gemstone, having gained popularity only in recent years as a substitute for black onyx or black tourmaline due to its affordability and availability.

Despite its short history, it has quickly become a sought-after gemstone for its unique appearance and metaphysical properties.

What is the Meaning of Black Howlite?

Black howlite is a gemstone that is often associated with emotional healing and balance. It is believed to have a calming effect on the mind, promoting positive thoughts and reducing stress and anxiety. In addition, it is said to enhance communication skills, enabling individuals to express themselves more clearly and effectively.

From a spiritual standpoint, this gemstone is thought to help individuals connect with their inner selves, facilitating personal growth and self-discovery. In terms of cultural significance, it has been used by various cultures throughout history for its healing properties. Native American tribes are said to have used it in traditional medicine practices to treat physical ailments such as headaches and joint pain.

Metaphysical Properties and Benefits of Black Howlite

The metaphysical properties of black howlite are believed to aid in reducing anxiety, stress, and tension. It is said to have a calming effect on the mind and body, helping to decrease anger and irritability while promoting patience and self-awareness. Additionally, it is thought to stimulate memory and enhance learning abilities. It is also associated with the root chakra, which is located at the base of the spine.

This chakra is believed to be responsible for grounding us emotionally and physically by connecting us to the earth’s energy. By working with this chakra, it may help individuals feel more grounded and centered, promoting feelings of safety and security.

Geological Properties of Black Howlite

This gemstone belongs to the borate mineral group, which includes other minerals such as ulexite and colemanite. It has a hardness level of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, indicating that it is relatively soft compared to other gemstones like diamonds or rubies.

Additionally, it has distinct features that make it easy to identify, including its white veining patterns against a black background. These patterns look like spider webs or snowflakes and enhance the beauty of this gemstone. When viewed under a microscope, these patterns resemble cauliflower-shaped formations that result from crystalline growth in the rock.

Uses of Black Howlite

Black howlite is a versatile gemstone that has been used in various applications. In jewelry-making, it is often used as a substitute for more expensive black stones like onyx or black tourmaline. The gemstone is commonly cut into beads or cabochons and incorporated into necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Its unique veining patterns make it an attractive addition to any piece of jewelry.

In terms of decoration, it can be used to add a touch of elegance to any space. It can be fashioned into decorative objects like bookends or paperweights. Additionally, the stone’s calming properties make it ideal for use in meditation spaces or yoga studios. Metaphysically speaking, it is said to have grounding and protective properties that help alleviate anxiety and stress. It is also believed to aid in communication by promoting clearer thinking and expression.

Proper Care of Black Howlite

Proper care of black howlite is essential to maintain its beauty and durability. It is important to avoid exposing this gemstone to high temperatures, intense sunlight, and harsh chemicals.

Cleaning it with a soft cloth and mild soap solution is recommended, while ultrasonic or steam cleaners should be avoided. Additionally, it is advisable not to wear black howlite jewelry while engaging in physical activities or sleeping as it can cause damage to the stone.

Storing it separately from other jewelry pieces can also prevent scratches or other forms of damage. 

Are Black Howlites Rare?

Black howlite is not considered rare in the gemstone market, as they are widely available and affordable. Howlite is a common mineral that is found in large quantities around the world, particularly in Canada, the USA, and Mexico.

The black variety of howlite is created through a process of dying or heat treatment to enhance its color. This treatment does not affect the stone’s hardness or durability but can impact its value depending on the quality of the dyeing or heating process.

Despite being readily available, it remains popular among jewelry makers due to its unique and striking appearance.

How Can You Tell If Your Black Howlite Is Real?

One way to tell if your black howlite is real is by examining its texture and weight. Real howlite has a smooth and cool texture, while fakes may feel rough or warm to the touch. Additionally, genuine howlite has a lighter weight compared to plastic imitations or dyed stones.

Another method is through observation of the stone’s patterns and coloration. Real black howlite has distinct gray or white veins that run through its black base color. If there are no visible veins or if the colors appear flat and uniform, then it is likely that the stone is counterfeit.

Other Varieties Of Howlite

As if black variety of howlite wasn’t fascinating enough, there are other varieties of this gemstone worth exploring. One such variety is blue howlite, which is said to have a calming effect on the mind and body. It’s also believed to aid in communication and self-expression, making it a popular choice for those who struggle with public speaking or social anxiety.

Another variety is green howlite, which is associated with growth and renewal. It’s often used in meditation practices to help one connect with nature and foster personal growth. Whether you’re drawn to the soothing blue or the renewing green, each type of howlite offers its unique properties and benefits!

Zodiac Birthstone 

It is not traditionally considered a zodiac birthstone for any of the astrological signs. However, some people may still choose to use black howlite as a spiritual or energy stone based on their personal beliefs and practices rather than its association with any particular zodiac sign.

Ultimately, whether or not black howlite is considered a zodiac birthstone depends on the individual interpretation and usage of astrology and gemstones.

Final Thoughts 

Black Howlite is a mineral with a unique appearance and metaphysical properties. It originated in North America, but can now be found in many countries around the world.

The meaning of it is linked to its ability to calm the mind and help individuals find peace in difficult situations. The metaphysical properties of it include promoting calmness, reducing stress, and increasing patience. These benefits make it a popular choice for meditation and mindfulness practices.

In conclusion, it is a unique mineral with many valuable properties. From its calming effects to its grounding abilities, this stone has become increasingly popular among those seeking inner peace and balance. Its versatility makes it an excellent choice for those looking to incorporate crystal healing into their daily routine.

FAQs

Who should not wear black howlite?

Black howlite is usually safe for most people to wear, and it can help you feel calm and grounded. However, it’s important to be aware of your energy and any imbalances you may have before using it. Everyone is different, so what works for one person may not work for another.

Does black howlite bring luck?

Black howlite is not usually thought to bring good luck, but it’s believed to help you feel calm and relaxed. It can also help you sleep better and feel better overall. Some people think it can even help you heal emotionally and feel more peaceful

What other gemstones work with black howlite?

You can use black howlite with other gemstones that are connected to the crown chakra like amethyst, clear quartz, or selenite. Some people believe that using these stones together can help you grow spiritually, improve your intuition, and heal emotionally.

Can you put black howlite in water?

It’s better not to keep black howlite in water for a long time because it can get damaged or change color. This is because it’s a type of stone that can absorb water easily. If you need to clean or charge it, other methods are gentler and won’t harm the stone.