Larimar: characteristics of the natural gem from the Caribbean Sea

Physical characteristics and genesis

Larimar is a variety of the mineral species pectolite, a hydrated sodium and calcium silicate. It appears in compact aggregates of acicular, or needle-like, monoclinic crystals with grayish-white hues. It is an opaque or semi-translucent gem with a fibrous-radiated structure.

In 1974, the first samples were found in the form of rounded nodules of an extraordinarily blue pectolite that was later named Larimar.

This gem is distinguished by the following characteristics: hardness of 4.5/5; specific gravity of about 2.81; and an average refractive index between 1.599 and 1.628.

Color

The unique coloration, typically mottled with white, ranges from light blue to pale green to intense sky blue, and is due to the presence of copper replacing some of the calcium normally found in pectolite. This combination makes it unique, and its appearance evokes the Caribbean Sea with its frothy waves!

A very particular phenomenon to report regarding larimar is chatoyancy: in some specimens, it is possible to find the presence of internal reflections due to fibrous inclusions.

Cut

The ideal cut for this gem, considering its color and translucence characteristics, is definitely the cabochon or spherical cut, along with all other so-called "threading" cuts such as pebble, chips, or fancy cuts, which are later drilled for the creation of necklaces and bracelets.

Some specimens of Larimar are processed to enhance the typical fibrousness of pectolite, creating effects very similar to chatoyancy.

These types of cuts allow us to admire the gem in its essence and enhance its uniqueness.

Price and Value

Like all gems, larimar comes with various characteristics that then determine the variations in price.

Color is a fundamental requirement, where the saturation of the dominant color, blue, which in many cases is combined with other colors such as green, creating incredible shades and chromatic variations, is particularly evaluated.

The rarest specimens are those that offer well-defined patterns, very strong blue shades, and noticeable chatoyancy on their surface.

Larimar Jewelry

Thanks to its uniqueness and hypnotic beauty, larimar is a much-loved and sought-after gem in jewelry. The finest specimens, strictly cut as cabochons, are selected and set in precious jewelry such as rings with stones, necklaces with stones, pendants with larimar gemstones, earrings with gems, and handmade bracelets.

In our online catalog, you can find sophisticated and special offerings about larimar jewelry that enchant with their quality, all certified and 100% natural.

You can choose from different models of jewelry that allow you to admire larimar in all its different shades, and there are also wonderful gems of larimar or larimar's strands available not only for setting but for every creation.

Cleaning and Care

To take care of a larimar stone, certain precautions are necessary: it is important to use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust and any impurities.

However, the use of harsh chemicals and exposure to high temperatures should be avoided.

Curiosities, Origin, and Crystal Therapy

This gem was first discovered in 1916 in Santo Domingo, in the Rio Baoruco, on the Barahona Peninsula. Its official rediscovery, however, is more recent and dates back to 1974, when Miguel Méndez and Norman Rilling investigated its origins in the Bahoruco mountain range and thus began mining activities.

The name Larimar is a trade name coined by Méndez himself, who combined Lari, the diminutive of his daughter Larissa's name, and mar (sea in Spanish).

It is also known as the Atlantis Stone, Stefilia's Stone, and Dolphin Stone.

Over the years, it has been used as a symbol of peace and harmony.

Although we are not aware of scientific evidence, it is reported in the world of crystal therapy that larimar is considered a healing stone, as it is believed to reduce stress and anxiety, free from emotional blocks, alleviate headaches, and other physical ailments.