mineral
Larimar (Pectolite)
Pectolite (NaCa2Si3O8(OH))
Hardness 4.5-5 on the Mohs scale, sky-blue to greenish-blue with white pattern streaks, vitreous to silky luster, triclinic crystal system, perfect cleavage in two directions, specific gravity around 2.81-2.86.
Identified More mineral →
Explore Larimar (Pectolite) in the encyclopedia →Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness 4.5-5 on the Mohs scale, sky-blue to greenish-blue with white pattern streaks, vitreous to silky luster, triclinic crystal system, perfect cleavage in two directions, specific gravity around 2.81-2.86.
Formation & geological history
Formed in cavity fillings within basaltic lavas created by volcanic activity during the Miocene epoch. Copper inclusions within the pectolite matrix give it its signature oceanic blue coloration.
Uses & applications
Widely used in lapidary arts, jewelry (cabochons, beads, rings, pendants), and highly valued by gemstone and mineral collectors.
Geological facts
Larimar was named by Miguel Méndez in 1974 after his daughter Larissa and the Spanish word for sea, 'mar'. It is found in only one location in the entire world: the Barahona province in the Dominican Republic.
Field identification & locations
Identified by its distinctive sea-blue and white sea-foam-like pattern, polished surface, and silky to vitreous luster. Highly sought after by collectors due to its single-source global occurrence.
More like this
Other mineral specimens
Sandstone (with potential mineral staining/concretions)
Arenite (SiO2 based)
sedimentary
Soil with Mineral Detritus and Quartz Fragments
Regolith / Silicate Mineral Aggregate
sedimentary
Limonite / Goethite (Iron Ore Mineral nodule)
FeO(OH)·nH2O / FeO(OH)
mineral
Schist
Schist
Metamorphic
Septarian Pebble
Septarian nodule / Concretion
sedimentary
Potassium Feldspar (Orthoclase)
Orthoclase (KAlSi3O8)
mineral