If you’re interested in gemstones and their properties, you may have come across howlite and white buffalo. While these two stones may look similar at first glance, they have distinct differences in appearance, rarity, and cultural significance. In this blog post, we’ll explore howlite and white buffalo, compare their properties, and discuss their uses in jewelry, fashion, and spiritual practices.
Howlite
Definition and Characteristics
Howlite is a calcium borosilicate hydroxide mineral that is often found in sedimentary rock formations. Its name comes from Henry How, a Canadian chemist who discovered the stone in 1868. Howlite is usually white or gray in color and has a porous and soft texture, which makes it easy to carve and polish.
Physical Appearance
Howlite has a white or light gray base color with black or gray veins or patches running throughout the stone. Sometimes, howlite is dyed to mimic other stones like turquoise or lapis lazuli, but its natural color is usually light.
History and Cultural Significance
In ancient times, howlite was used as a talisman for protection and as a healing stone. It was also used in Native American jewelry and carvings, and the stone was believed to have spiritual properties that could help the wearer connect with their inner self and overcome negative emotions.
Uses and Benefits
Today, howlite is still used for its spiritual and emotional healing properties. It is said to have a calming effect on the mind and body and can help reduce stress and anxiety. Howlite is also used in jewelry making, especially for beaded bracelets and necklaces, as well as in home decor and accessories like coasters, bookends, and candle holders.
White Buffalo
Definition and Characteristics
White buffalo is a rare type of stone that is found in the southwestern United States, particularly in Nevada. It is a type of white banded agate that has black or brown inclusions, which gives it a unique appearance.
Physical Appearance
White buffalo has a white or cream-colored base with black or brown inclusions that resemble the fur of a buffalo. The stone is often cut and polished into cabochons, which are then used in jewelry making.
Rarity and Value
White buffalo is a rare type of stone, and its scarcity makes it more valuable than howlite. The stone is highly sought after by collectors and jewelry makers, and it can command high prices at auctions and gem shows.
History and Cultural Significance
White buffalo has a significant place in Native American mythology and beliefs. In some tribes, the birth of a white buffalo calf is seen as a sacred and miraculous event, and the stone is believed to have spiritual powers that can protect the wearer and bring good luck.
Uses and Benefits
In addition to its spiritual properties, white buffalo is also used in jewelry making, especially for Native American-style jewelry. The stone is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and body, and it can help the wearer connect with their inner self and achieve a sense of inner peace.
Howlite vs. White Buffalo
Differences in Physical Appearance
While howlite is white or light gray with black or gray veins, white buffalo has a white or cream-colored base with black or brown inclusions that resemble the fur of a buffalo. White buffalo is also denser and heavier than howlite, which has a softer and more porous texture.
Rarity and Value Comparison
White buffalo is rarer and more valuable than howlite due to its scarcity and unique appearance. Howlite is more widely available and less expensive than white buffalo, making it a popular choice for jewelry making and home decor.
Spiritual and Emotional Healing Properties
Both howlite and white buffalo are believed to have spiritual and emotional healing properties. Howlite is said to have a calming effect on the mind and body and can help reduce stress and anxiety, while white buffalo is believed to help the wearer connect with their inner self and achieve a sense of inner peace.
Uses in Jewelry and Fashion
Both howlite and white buffalo are popular choices for jewelry making. Howlite is often used for beaded bracelets and necklaces, while white buffalo is commonly cut into cabochons and used in Native American-style jewelry. Both stones are also used in home decor and accessories like coasters, bookends, and candle holders.
Conclusion
Howlite and white buffalo are two distinct gemstones that have their own unique properties and uses. While howlite is more widely available and less expensive than white buffalo, both stones are valued for their spiritual and emotional healing properties and their use in jewelry and fashion. Whether you prefer the subtle beauty of howlite or the striking appearance of white buffalo, both stones offer something special for those who appreciate the natural beauty of gemstones.
