Turquoise and howlite are two popular gemstones that are commonly used in jewelry making. While they may look similar, they are actually quite different in terms of their physical properties, geological origins, and cultural significance. In this blog post, we will explore whether or not it is possible to wear turquoise and howlite together, and if so, how to do it in a stylish and fashionable way.
Turquoise and Howlite: Differences and Similarities
Before we delve into the fashion aspects of wearing turquoise and howlite together, let’s take a closer look at these two gemstones and how they differ.
Physical Characteristics
Turquoise is a blue-green mineral that is composed of copper, aluminum, and phosphorus. It has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 2.60-2.90. Turquoise is usually opaque or translucent and has a waxy luster.
Howlite, on the other hand, is a white or grey mineral that is composed of calcium, boron, and silicon. It has a hardness of 3.5 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 2.58-2.59. Howlite is usually opaque and has a dull, matte finish.
Geological Properties
Turquoise is formed by the percolation of groundwater through copper mines or other copper-rich areas. It is often found in association with other copper minerals, such as chrysocolla, malachite, and azurite.
Howlite, on the other hand, is a relatively rare mineral that is found in evaporite deposits. It is often associated with other borate minerals, such as ulexite and colemanite.
Cultural Significance
Turquoise has been valued for its beauty and spiritual properties by many cultures throughout history. In Native American culture, for example, turquoise is considered a sacred stone that symbolizes protection, healing, and good fortune. It has also been used by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians, Persians, and Aztecs for its ornamental and ceremonial value.
Howlite, on the other hand, has no significant cultural or spiritual significance. It was first discovered in Nova Scotia in 1868 by a Canadian geologist named Henry How, and has since been used primarily as a decorative stone in jewelry making.
How They Are Used in Jewelry Making
Turquoise and howlite are both popular gemstones that are commonly used in jewelry making. Turquoise is often used in Native American jewelry, as well as in modern and contemporary designs. Howlite is often used as a substitute for more expensive stones, such as turquoise or white jade.
Fashion Trends and Color Matching
When it comes to wearing turquoise and howlite together, there are a few things to keep in mind in terms of fashion trends and color matching.
Popular Fashion Trends Involving Turquoise and Howlite
Turquoise and howlite are both versatile gemstones that can be incorporated into a wide range of fashion styles. Some popular fashion trends involving turquoise and howlite include:
- Bohemian or boho-chic: Turquoise and howlite are often paired with other natural materials, such as leather, feathers, and beads, to create a bohemian or boho-chic look.
- Southwestern or Native American: Turquoise is often associated with Native American jewelry and can be paired with howlite to create a Southwestern-inspired look.
- Minimalist or modern: Turquoise and howlite can also be used in minimalist or modern designs, either as standalone pieces or paired with other minimalist materials, such as silver or gold.
How to Match Turquoise and Howlite with Other Colors
When it comes to matching turquoise and how lite with other colors, there are a few color combinations that work particularly well:
- Turquoise and white: Howlite’s white or grey color pairs well with turquoise’s blue-green hue, creating a fresh and clean look.
- Turquoise and brown: Brown is a neutral color that complements the earthy tones of both turquoise and howlite, creating a warm and natural look.
- Turquoise and black: Black is a classic color that provides a bold contrast to the bright and vibrant hues of turquoise and howlite.
It’s also important to consider the overall color palette of your outfit when pairing turquoise and howlite with other colors. If you’re going for a bohemian or Southwestern-inspired look, for example, you may want to incorporate other warm and natural tones, such as beige, tan, or rust. If you’re going for a more modern or minimalist look, you may want to stick to a neutral color palette, such as black, white, or grey.
Guidelines for Wearing Turquoise and Howlite Together
When it comes to wearing turquoise and howlite together, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind:
- Keep it simple: Since turquoise and howlite are both statement stones, it’s best to keep the rest of your outfit simple and understated. Avoid wearing busy patterns or competing colors that could detract from the beauty of the stones.
- Mix and match: Don’t be afraid to mix and match different shades and textures of turquoise and howlite. For example, you could pair a smooth and polished turquoise pendant with a chunky and rough howlite bracelet for a unique and interesting look.
- Layer it up: Layering different pieces of turquoise and howlite jewelry is a great way to create a bold and dynamic look. Try layering a delicate turquoise necklace with a chunky howlite ring or stacking several turquoise and howlite bracelets on one arm.
Styling Tips
Now that you know how to match and wear turquoise and howlite together, let’s take a look at some specific styling tips.
Outfit Ideas Featuring Turquoise and Howlite Jewelry
Here are a few outfit ideas featuring turquoise and howlite jewelry:
- Bohemian-inspired outfit: Pair a flowy white cotton dress with a brown leather belt, brown ankle boots, and a chunky howlite necklace.
- Southwestern-inspired outfit: Pair a turquoise maxi dress with a brown leather jacket, brown cowboy boots, and a turquoise and howlite cuff bracelet.
- Modern-inspired outfit: Pair a white button-up shirt with black skinny jeans, black ankle boots, and a turquoise and howlite statement necklace.
Accessories to Pair with Turquoise and Howlite
In addition to jewelry, there are a few accessories that pair particularly well with turquoise and howlite:
- Leather: Brown leather belts, bags, and shoes complement the earthy tones of both turquoise and howlite.
- Feathers: Feather accessories, such as earrings or hair clips, can add a bohemian touch to your turquoise and howlite outfit.
- Beads: Beaded bracelets or anklets can complement the texture and color of both turquoise and howlite.
Dos and Don’ts of Styling Turquoise and Howlite
Here are a few dos and don’ts to keep in mind when styling turquoise and howlite:
- Do experiment with different textures and shapes of turquoise and howlite jewelry.
- Do mix and match different shades and textures of turquoise and howlite.
- Don’t wear too many statement pieces at once. Stick to one or two statement pieces and keep the rest of your outfit simple.
- Don’t overdo it with accessories. Stick to one or two complementary accessories, such as a leather belt or a beaded bracelet.
Care and Maintenance
When it comes to caring for turquoise and howlite jewelry, it’s important to take a few steps to ensure that your pieces stay looking their best:
- Store your jewelry properly: Keep your turquoise and howlite jewelry in a dry and cool place, away from sunlight and moisture. You can store them in a jewelry box or pouch.
- Clean your jewelry regularly: Use a soft cloth or brush to gently clean your jewelry after each use. Avoid using harsh chemicals or ultrasonic cleaners, as they can damage the stones.
- Handle with care: Turquoise and howlite are relatively soft stones, so be careful not to drop or scratch your jewelry. Remove your jewelry before engaging in activities that could damage it, such as swimming or exercising.
- Restring your jewelry: If your turquoise and howlite jewelry is strung on a thread or wire, it may need to be restrung over time to prevent breakage.
Final Thoughts
Turquoise and howlite make a beautiful and versatile combination for jewelry and fashion. With a few styling tips and guidelines, you can create a variety of unique and stylish looks featuring these two stones. Whether you prefer a bohemian, Southwestern, or modern aesthetic, turquoise and howlite jewelry is sure to make a statement and add a pop of color and texture to your outfit. So go ahead and experiment with different combinations and see what works best for you!
