Larimar: The Blue Beauty of the Caribbean

Larimar, a rare blue variety of the mineral pectolite, was discovered in 1916 by a Dominican priest, Miguel Domingo Fuertes Loren, but it was not recognized as a gemstone at that time. It wasn't until 1974 that the stone gained attention when a local, Miguel Méndez, and a Peace Corps volunteer, Norman Rilling, found pieces of the blue stone on a beach in the Dominican Republic. Méndez named the stone "Larimar" after his daughter Larissa and the Spanish word for sea, "mar," reflecting its ocean-like color. The discovery led to mining efforts in the mountainous region of Bahoruco, where it remains the only known source of this unique gemstone.

Larimar is a type of pectolite, specifically noted for its distinctive blue coloration, which ranges from white and light-blue to green-blue and deep blue. It has a hardness of 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively soft compared to many other gemstones. This softness requires careful handling and protective settings in jewelry to prevent scratches and damage, but its unique and captivating colors make it a highly desirable stone for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts alike.

Larimar is often associated with physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being due to its calming blue hues and unique vibrational energy. Physically, it is believed to alleviate stress-related conditions and promote relaxation, benefiting the nervous system and reducing tension. Emotionally, larimar is thought to encourage tranquility, soothe fears, and foster clear communication, helping individuals express themselves more effectively and with confidence. Spiritually, the stone is said to facilitate a deeper connection with the divine, enhance meditation, and promote inner peace, making it a valuable tool for spiritual growth and emotional healing. Its association with the throat chakra supports communication and emotional expression, further contributing to overall well-being.

Caring for larimar jewelry involves protecting it from scratches, harsh chemicals, and extreme temperature changes due to its relative softness. To maintain its beauty, clean larimar gently with a soft cloth and mild soap and water, avoiding ultrasonic cleaners and steam cleaning. Store larimar pieces separately in a soft pouch or lined jewelry box to prevent them from being scratched by harder gemstones or metals. Additionally, avoid exposing larimar to prolonged direct sunlight, as this can fade its vibrant blue color, and remove larimar jewelry before engaging in activities that might subject it to hard impacts or abrasive substances.

Explore our collection of genuine Larimar Jewelry that is hand selected to insure to have only the finest larimar stones.