Often appearing in a stark white or grayish matrix laced with intricate veins of dark gray or black, Howlite is a borate mineral prized for its unique marbled appearance and its affordability, often used as a substitute for more expensive stones like turquoise or magnesite. Its name honors the Canadian chemist, mineralogist, and geologist Henry How, who first discovered it in Nova Scotia, Canada, in 1868. While the characteristic white with dark veining is most common, Howlite can occasionally be found in colourless, gray, or brownish hues. Significant deposits of Howlite are located in Canada (Nova Scotia), the United States (California), Germany, and Turkey. With a relatively soft hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale, Howlite is a delicate gemstone and requires careful handling, especially when worn in jewelry intended for regular use. Its lustre is typically sub-vitreous to dull, and it is opaque. While not steeped in ancient history or folklore like some other gemstones, Howlite gained recognition for its distinctive appearance and its ability to be easily dyed to mimic other stones, particularly turquoise. This versatility has contributed to its popularity in contemporary jewelry and crafts. Symbolically, Howlite is often associated with patience, calmness, awareness, and emotional expression. It is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety, as well as facilitate communication and understanding. Caring for Howlite requires gentle handling due to its softness and porous nature.