mineral

Larimar

Pectolite (NaCa2Si3O[OH])

Hardness: 4.5-5.0 on Mohs scale; Color: sky blue, light blue, or cyan with white marbling; Luster: Vitreous to silky; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions

Hardness: 4
Color: sky blue, light blue, or cyan with white marbling
Luster: Vitreous to silky

Identified July 3, 2026More mineral →

Explore Larimar in the encyclopedia →

Identify your own rocks.

Get a report just like this from any photo, free.

App Store Google Play

Physical properties

Hardness: 4.5-5.0 on Mohs scale; Color: sky blue, light blue, or cyan with white marbling; Luster: Vitreous to silky; Crystal Structure: Triclinic; Cleavage: Perfect in two directions

Formation & geological history

Formed through volcanic activity where pectolite filled cavities in basaltic lavas. The unique blue color is caused by copper substitution for calcium. It is specifically found in the Dominican Republic.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in jewelry, decorative carvings, and as a healing stone in metaphysical practices.

Geological facts

Larimar is also known as the Stefilia's Stone or Dolphin Stone. It is unique to a very small area in the Barahona province of the Dominican Republic, making it one of the rarest gemstones in the world.

Field identification & locations

Identify by its distinctive 'caribbean sea' pattern of white lines and shades of blue. It is often found in riverbeds or mined from deep volcanic tubes.