mineral

Larimar

Blue Pectolite (NaCa2Si3O8(OH))

Hardness: 4.5-5.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Light blue, sky blue, green-blue, with white marbling; Luster: Vitreous to silky; Crystal structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions; Specific gravity: 2.74-2.90

Hardness: 4
Color: Light blue, sky blue, green-blue, with white marbling
Luster: Vitreous to silky

Identified May 27, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in volcanic cavities where hot mineral-rich fluids deposited silicate minerals. It is specifically associated with basaltic flows and Miocene-age volcanic activity in the Caribbean.

Uses & applications

Primarily used in jewelry (cabochons, beads, silver settings) and as a high-value collector's mineral due to its rarity.

Geological facts

Larimar is found in only one location in the entire world: the Filipinas Mine in Los Chupaderos, Dominican Republic. It was originally discovered in 1916 but rediscovered in 1974 by Miguel Méndez, who named it after his daughter Larissa and the Spanish word for sea (mar).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its unique 'volcanic blue' hue and white needle-like inclusions or 'wisps' that resemble sunlight reflecting on Caribbean water. Collectors should look for deep blue saturation and minimal brownish (hematite) staining.