Turquoise howlite is a material that has gained popularity in the world of jewelry and decorative items. While it’s not actual turquoise, it has a similar appearance when treated or dyed, making it an interesting alternative. But beyond its aesthetic qualities, turquoise howlite is believed to have several uses and benefits. In this article, we’ll explore in detail what turquoise howlite is good for, considering different aspects such as its uses in jewelry, its potential healing properties, and its role in home decor.
Jewelry Making
Aesthetic Appeal
Turquoise howlite is great for creating beautiful and affordable jewelry pieces. Its base color is usually white or off-white, which makes it an ideal canvas for dyeing to mimic the look of genuine turquoise. When dyed with blue or green hues, it can closely resemble the appearance of natural turquoise, allowing jewelry makers to design necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings that have that sought-after turquoise look.
For example, a strand of turquoise howlite beads can be used to make a charming necklace. The beads can be combined with silver spacers or other complementary gemstones to create a stylish and eye-catching piece that’s perfect for both casual and formal occasions.
Versatility in Design
It’s highly versatile in terms of design possibilities. Howlite is relatively soft compared to some gemstones, which means it can be easily carved or shaped into different forms. It can be made into cabochons for use in rings or pendants, where the smooth, domed shape showcases the dyed color beautifully.
In bracelets, it can be strung with various types of cords or wires, and different bead sizes and shapes can be used to create unique textures and patterns. Whether you want a simple, minimalist design or an elaborate, multi-strand bracelet, turquoise howlite can be incorporated effectively.
Cost-Effective Option
One of the main advantages of using turquoise howlite in jewelry is its affordability. Genuine turquoise can be quite expensive, especially high-quality specimens with desirable colors and minimal flaws. Turquoise howlite offers a more budget-friendly alternative for those who love the look of turquoise but don’t want to spend a lot of money.
This allows jewelry designers to create a wide range of pieces at different price points, making it accessible to a larger number of consumers who want to add a touch of the turquoise aesthetic to their jewelry collections.
Healing and Metaphysical Properties
Calming and Stress Relief
In the realm of crystal healing, turquoise howlite is believed to have a calming effect on the mind and emotions. It’s thought to help reduce stress and anxiety, creating a sense of peace and tranquility for the wearer. People who practice crystal healing might carry or wear a piece of turquoise howlite during times of high stress, like before an important presentation or during a busy workday.
The gentle energy it’s said to possess can help soothe the nervous system and promote relaxation, similar to how spending time in a serene natural environment might make you feel calmer.
Communication and Self-Expression
Turquoise howlite is also associated with the throat chakra, which is related to communication and self-expression. It’s believed that wearing or having this stone close by can enhance one’s ability to speak clearly and confidently. For example, someone who struggles with public speaking or expressing their ideas might use turquoise howlite as a reminder to open up and communicate effectively.
It’s thought to help remove any blockages in the throat chakra, allowing for smoother and more honest communication, whether in personal relationships or professional settings.
Spiritual Growth and Awareness
On a spiritual level, turquoise howlite is seen as a stone that can aid in spiritual growth and awareness. It’s believed to help connect the wearer with their higher self and the spiritual realm. By wearing it during meditation or other spiritual practices, some think it can facilitate a deeper sense of inner peace and a stronger connection to the divine.
It can act as a reminder to focus on one’s spiritual journey and to seek knowledge and enlightenment, guiding the wearer to explore their beliefs and values more deeply.
Home Decor
Adding a Pop of Color
Turquoise howlite can be used to enhance the aesthetic of home interiors. When made into decorative items like vases, bowls, or small sculptures, it can add a pop of color to a room. Its turquoise-like appearance brings a touch of freshness and a connection to nature, making it a great choice for spaces that need a bit of a lively and inviting touch.
For instance, a turquoise howlite bowl placed on a coffee table can become a focal point in the living room, drawing the eye and adding a decorative element that complements the overall decor.
Creating a Relaxing Atmosphere
Just as it’s believed to have a calming effect in a personal energy context, turquoise howlite can contribute to creating a relaxing atmosphere in the home. Placing it in bedrooms or living areas can help set a peaceful mood. A howlite-based wall art piece or a set of turquoise howlite coasters on a side table can all work together to make the space feel more serene and inviting.
It’s like bringing a bit of the tranquility associated with the outdoors and the color turquoise inside, making the home a more comfortable and soothing place to be.
Coordinating with Other Decor Elements
Turquoise howlite is versatile enough to coordinate with a variety of other decor elements. It can blend well with neutral colors like white, beige, or gray, adding a touch of color without overpowering the space. It can also be paired with other natural materials such as wood, stone, or wicker to create a harmonious and earthy look.
For example, in a bathroom, turquoise howlite tiles or a mosaic made with howlite pieces can work beautifully with wooden cabinets and a neutral-colored countertop, creating a spa-like and stylish environment.
Artistic and Crafting Uses
Sculpture and Carving
Artists and crafters often use turquoise howlite for sculpture and carving projects. Its softness makes it easier to work with compared to some harder gemstones. They can create intricate designs, from small figurines to detailed abstract pieces. The dyed color can add an element of interest and beauty to the final work of art.
A sculptor might choose to carve a piece of turquoise howlite into a beautiful animal shape, using the color variations to bring out the details and make it a unique and visually appealing piece that can be displayed in galleries or homes.
Beadwork and Embellishments
In beadwork, turquoise howlite beads are a popular choice. They can be used to embellish clothing, handbags, or other fabric items. The beads can be sewn onto a piece of fabric to create decorative patterns or added to tassels for a fun and stylish look.
For example, a handmade purse can be made more eye-catching by adding a fringe of turquoise howlite beads along the edges, giving it a bohemian and fashionable touch.
Conclusion
In conclusion, turquoise howlite has many uses and is considered good for various purposes. Whether it’s in jewelry making, where it offers an affordable and aesthetically pleasing option, in the realm of healing and metaphysical beliefs where it’s thought to have positive effects on our well-being, in home decor to create inviting spaces, or in artistic and crafting projects to bring creativity to life, it has a lot to offer.
While some of its perceived benefits are based on traditional beliefs and not scientifically proven, its versatility and charm make it a valuable material that continues to be popular among jewelry makers, decorators, artists, and those who simply appreciate its beauty. Understanding what turquoise howlite is good for allows us to make the most of it in our different creative endeavors and daily life.
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