gemstone

Larimar

Pectolite (Ca2NaSi3O8(OH))

Hardness: 4.5-5 on the Mohs scale. Color: Varies in volcanic blue, light blue, green-blue, and white. Luster: Vitreous to silky. Crystal structure: Triclinic. Specific gravity: 2.70-2.90. Cleavage: Perfect in two directions.

Hardness: 4
Color: Varies in volcanic blue, light blue, green-blue, and white
Luster: Vitreous to silky

Identified July 30, 2026More gemstone →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed in volcanic cavities (vesicles) where hydrothermal solutions rich in calcium, sodium, and silicon crystallized within basaltic lava flows. Found almost exclusively in the Dominican Republic.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in high-end jewelry, pendants, rings, and carvings due to its unique oceanic blue color and chatoyant wave-like patterns.

Geological facts

Also known as the 'Atlantis Stone', larimar was named by Norman Rilling and Miguel Mendez, combining Mendez's daughter's name (Larissa) with the Spanish word for sea (mar). It is one of the few gemstones found in the Caribbean.

Field identification & locations

Easily identified by its distinctive white and light-blue mottled patterns resembling sunlight reflecting on Caribbean water. Found exclusively in the Barahona province of the Dominican Republic.