Comparison · Minerals
Alabaster vs Howlite
Alabaster and Howlite are easy to confuse because both are minerals. Howlite is harder (Mohs 3–3.5) than Alabaster (Mohs 1.5–2), so Howlite will scratch Alabaster and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Alabaster and Howlite
- Howlite is harder (Mohs 3–3.5) than Alabaster (Mohs 1.5–2), so Howlite will scratch Alabaster and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Alabaster is Translucent to opaque, Howlite is Opaque.
- They overlap in white and gray, but Alabaster also comes in pink, yellow, and multicolored.
Alabaster vs Howlite properties
| Property | Alabaster | Howlite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Minerals | Minerals |
| Mohs hardness | 1.5–2 | 3–3.5 |
| Luster | Vitreous (crystalline); waxy to dull (massive) | Subvitreous to dull |
| Streak | White | White |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque | Opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.3 | 2.45–2.6 |
| Crystal system | Monoclinic | Monoclinic |
| Common colors | White, Cream, Pale pink, Yellowish, Gray, Banded | White with gray veining |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $2–$150+ | $2–$150+ |
Which is more valuable?
Typical specimens of Alabaster and Howlite trade in a similar range, around $20.
About Alabaster
Alabaster is a fine-grained, massive variety of gypsum (calcium sulfate dihydrate, CaSO4·2H2O), prized since antiquity for carving because of its softness and ability to take a smooth polish. Unlike crystalline selenite, alabaster shows no visible crystal faces, appearing instead as a compact, sugary or waxy mass. Its low hardness and solubility in water set it apart from harder ornamental stones like marble, which it is often confused with by name alone.
About Howlite
Howlite is a calcium borosilicate hydroxide, Ca2B5SiO9(OH)5, typically found as white to gray nodular masses veined with dark, web-like markings that resemble turquoise. It crystallizes in the monoclinic system but rarely as distinct crystals, forming instead as compact, chalky nodules in borate-rich evaporite deposits. It was first described in 1868 by Canadian geologist Henry How, for whom it is named.
Alabaster vs Howlite FAQ
Is Alabaster the same as Howlite?
No. Both are minerals, but they are distinct species with different hardness, streak or luster. Howlite is harder (Mohs 3–3.5) than Alabaster (Mohs 1.5–2), so Howlite will scratch Alabaster and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily.
How can you tell Alabaster from Howlite?
Howlite is harder (Mohs 3–3.5) than Alabaster (Mohs 1.5–2), so Howlite will scratch Alabaster and not the other way round. A fingernail (Mohs 2.5) scratches it easily. Hold a thin edge to the light: Alabaster is Translucent to opaque, Howlite is Opaque. They overlap in white and gray, but Alabaster also comes in pink, yellow, and multicolored.
Which is harder, Alabaster or Howlite?
Howlite is harder: Mohs 3–3.5 against Mohs 1.5–2 for Alabaster.
Which is more valuable, Alabaster or Howlite?
Typical specimens of Alabaster and Howlite trade in a similar range, around $20.
