$35.00
A 1.5-inch turtle carved from natural white howlite with soft gray veining and smooth polished detail.
In stock
This 1.5-inch howlite turtle is hand carved from natural howlite, recognized for its white body color crossed with fine gray or charcoal veining. Artisans sculpt the turtle with rounded curves, a gently domed shell, and compact limbs that highlight the stone’s clean patterning.
The smooth polish enhances howlite’s marble-like appearance, giving the figurine a bright, crisp aesthetic that contrasts beautifully with the dark matrix lines.
Howlite is a calcium borosilicate mineral that forms in evaporite deposits alongside borates and other low-temperature minerals. It typically appears as nodules or irregular masses with natural web-like matrix lines created by fractures filled with darker minerals during formation.
Its softness and ability to take a clean polish make it a favorite for small carvings, beads, and sculpted miniatures.
| Property | Value |
|---|---|
| Mineral Class | Borate Mineral |
| Chemical Formula | Ca₂B₅SiO₉(OH)₅ |
| Crystal System | Monoclinic |
| Mohs Hardness | 3 – 3.5 |
| Common Localities | Canada, USA, Mexico |
Howlite was discovered in the 19th century in Nova Scotia and quickly gained popularity in decorative arts due to its bright coloration and striking matrix. Because the stone carves readily, it became a staple material for miniature animals, small figurines, and ornamental pieces.
Turtles, with their rounded shapes and steady form, are a natural fit for howlite’s clean appearance and subtle veining.
The figurine naturally suggests:
Steadiness, shown through the turtle’s grounded posture
Simplicity and clarity, reflected in howlite’s bright white stone
Artisan craftsmanship, displayed through balanced shaping and polish
Its neat contrast and compact size make it ideal for collectors of white stones or animal carvings.
The stone’s natural gray veining varies from piece to piece, creating unique patterning across each shell and limb. At 1.5 inches, this turtle offers an appealing blend of size, polish, and detail suitable for display shelves, office spaces, or curated mineral collections.
Clean with a dry cloth. Avoid heavy moisture exposure due to the stone’s softness. Store away from harder minerals to prevent surface marks.
| Weight | 3 oz |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 1.5 × 1 × 1 in |
