Howlite Beads (41)

Howlite has only been found in a few places. It was first discovered in Nova Scotia, which is one of a handful of locations where it’s been detected in eastern Canada. The next group of deposits was at the far side of the continent, with several sites in southern California and one in Nevada. The only other mine containing howlite is in Turkey.

Typically howlite is found in nodule form, and crystal howlite is an alternative and less common variation.

Getting affordable beads online is easy with the Bead Traders, since we buy beads in volume, meaning you save money on purchasing beads and beading supplies every time you shop with us.

A Diamond in the Rough: Howlite’s Discovery

History is full of errors and unappreciated discoveries, which are only later revealed to be value. Howlite beads have a history of mistaken identity. About 150 years ago, a Canadian scientist was contacted by miners who didn’t think much of an unusual mineral. They were extracting gypsum and found themselves working around a strange substance that defied contemporary description.

The miners got in contact with Henry How, a mineralogist. He determined that the stone was something entirely new and previously undiscovered, and he gave it a proper scientific name of “silico-boro-calcite.” It was subsequently renamed “howlite” in his honor.

An Excellent Substitute for Turquoise

Many ascribe magical and spiritual powers to gemstones, and howlite beads are capable of remarkable transformative capabilities. Howlite’s porous nature readily accepts a rainbow of colors. From its pale beginnings, the stone can be dyed into substitutes for sought-after turquoise Howlite beads. Your customers and friends will enjoy the beauty of turquoise and the satisfaction of significant savings.

Crafters Have Many Options

We proudly offer a wide range of howlite beads to give you many crafting options. This highly adaptable stone is available in slabs and chips. Also available is a wealth of bead types including heshi, round, bullet shaped, and rice beads. Our howlite is characterized by fine black lines that run through the stone in thin, distinctive patterns included in our turquoise howlite beads.