By Chelsea Reed
Deep blue oceans. Soft warm sands. Sunny skies with seagulls and pelicans. If there is a gemstone that could be the best memento for a relaxing seaside experience, it would be Larimar. This amazing blue stone is a rare variety of pectolite. It gets its volcanic blue color from the traces of copper instead of calcium. Larimar is exclusively from a ½ square mile area of Baoruco in the Dominican Republic. It’s very popular in silver jewelry and is the perfect holiday gift for your special someone! Here’s what you need to know about Larimar.
Stone of the Sea
High in the mountaintops of Baoruco, Dominican Republic lies the hidden treasure Larimar. Millions of years ago ancient volcanic eruptions hollowed cavities inside the mountains. These cavities were later filled with minerals that transformed into exotic Larimar stone. The blue Larimar deposits eroded down the rivers into the beaches. Island natives called the Larimar “Blue Stone” in their local language.
In 1974 the lapidary artisan Miguel Mendez gave the beloved stone its official name. Mendez named Larimar after his daughter Larissa and Mar, the Spanish word for “sea.” Larimar deposits are only mined by hand in a small ½ square mile area in these mountaintops. It’s found nowhere else in the world! The Gemological Institute of America recognizes Larimar as a rare precious stone. It may go up in value over time.
How to Shop Larimar
Larimar comes in colors ranging from blue to pale white and brown to green with red tendrils. The market value of the gemstone is in its blue color. The brighter the blue, the higher its quality. Patterns inside each Larimar stone are unique. Red plumes from iron ore give it a fern-like design. Blue and white lines can make it look like the back of a turtle, an ocean wave, or even a dolphin! Larimar is often made into sterling silver pendants, necklaces, bracelets, earrings and more. It is a local treat in the Caribbean Islands. The unique nautical look of Larimar stone makes it a popular gift around the world. And Michael’s Gems and Glass has Larimar jewelry right here on our website!
Caring for Your Larimar Jewelry
The natural beauty of larimar jewelry will last quite a long time with a little TLC. Washing it with mild soap and water once a week will maintain its gorgeous soft luster. Larimar is photosensitive, so be sure to keep it away from intense sunlight to preserve its color. Much like pearls, Larimar stone is susceptible to perfumes and hairsprays. An easy rule to remember is to put it on last and take it off first in your dressing routine. These good habits will ensure you’ll enjoy this “stone of the sea” for many years to come.
A Unique Holiday Gift
Curious to see amazing Larimar stone for yourself? Check out our Larimar collection at Michael’s Gems and Glass to shop early for the holidays! These pieces are beautiful additions to anyone’s holiday wish list. This rare nautical gemstone is just right for loved ones inside a stocking or under the tree. Larimar’s remarkable blue color often reminds people of a relaxing beach day. Its aquatic beauty will certainly help them remember you for many years to come!