Howlite is a white or off-white opaque mineral, often with grey or black veining, sometimes dyed to imitate turquoise or other gemstones. It is a relatively soft stone, ranking around 3.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it prone to scratching and damage. Its porous nature means it can also absorb oils, chemicals, and liquids.

Cleaning howlite bead jewelry
Gentle Cleaning:
• Gently wipe your howlite jewelry with a soft, dry cloth to remove dust, dirt, and oils after each wear.
Mild Soap and Water (with caution): If a deeper clean is needed, you can use a solution of mild, unscented soap and lukewarm water. Dampen a soft cloth with this solution and gently wipe the beads. Do not submerge or soak howlite, as its porous nature can cause it to absorb water or soap, potentially leading to discoloration or weakening of the stone.
Thorough Drying:
• Immediately after cleaning with water, pat the jewelry completely dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. Ensure no moisture remains in any crevices.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals:
• Never use abrasive cleaners, harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia, or commercial jewelry cleaning solutions on howlite. These can damage the stone's surface and potentially alter its color or finish, especially if it's dyed.
Avoid Ultrasonic and Steam Cleaners:
• The vibrations and heat from these cleaners can be too aggressive for the relatively soft and porous howlite and may cause damage.

Protecting and storing howlite bead jewelry
Handle with Care:
• Due to its softness, howlite is susceptible to scratches, chips, and breaks. Avoid dropping your jewelry or exposing it to impacts against hard surfaces.
Remove Before Activities:
• Always remove your howlite jewelry before showering, swimming, cleaning, gardening, exercising, or any activity that could expose it to moisture, chemicals, or hard impacts.
Avoid Contact with Chemicals:
• Apply lotions, perfumes, hairsprays, and other beauty products before putting on your howlite jewelry to prevent absorption and potential damage from chemicals and oils.
Avoid Extreme Temperatures and Sunlight:
• Store your jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can cause fading or discoloration, especially for dyed howlite. Avoid exposing it to extreme temperature changes.
Separate Storage:
• Store your howlite jewelry separately in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to prevent scratches from harder gemstones or metals.

Regular Inspections:
• Periodically inspect your jewelry for any signs of wear, such as loose beads or a weakened stringing or setting, and address them promptly to prevent loss or further damage.

By following these care instructions, you can help ensure that your howlite bead jewelry remains beautiful and vibrant for many years to come.