mineral

Larimar

Blue Pectolite (NaCa2Si3O8(OH))

Hardness: 4.5-5.0 on Mohs scale. Color: sky blue to green-blue with white marbling. Luster: Vitreous to silky. Crystal System: Triclinic. Specific Gravity: 2.74-2.90.

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

Identified July 18, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Hardness: 4.5-5.0 on Mohs scale. Color: sky blue to green-blue with white marbling. Luster: Vitreous to silky. Crystal System: Triclinic. Specific Gravity: 2.74-2.90.

Formation & geological history

Formed in cavities in basaltic lava by hydrothermal processes where copper replaces some of the calcium, giving it the blue color. It is typically found in tertiary volcanic rocks.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone for jewelry (pendants, rings, bracelets) and as a collector's mineral. Highly valued in metaphysical circles.

Geological facts

Larimar is found in only one location in the world: the Filipinas Mine in Los Chupaderos, Dominican Republic. It was named by Miguel Méndez, who combined his daughter's name 'Larissa' with 'mar' (Spanish for sea).

Field identification & locations

Identify by its characteristic sea-blue color and white patterning resembling sunlight reflecting on water. It is non-translucent and often has small inclusions of hematite or copper. Look for the unique volcanic locality in the Dominican Republic.