mineral

Larimar

Pectolite (NaCa2Si3O8(OH))

Hardness: 4.5-5.0 on Mohs scale; Color: Sky blue, turquoise, or light 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: Sky blue, turquoise, or light blue with white marbling
Luster: Vitreous to silky

Identified May 3, 2026More mineral →

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Physical properties

Formation & geological history

Formed through volcanic activity where copper-rich hydrothermal fluids filled cavities in basaltic lavas. It is specifically linked to the Miocene epoch in the Dominican Republic.

Uses & applications

Primarily used as a gemstone in high-end jewelry (pendants, rings, earrings) and as a highly sought-after collector\'s specimen due to its rarity.

Geological facts

Larimar is known as the 'Atlantis Stone' or the 'Dolphin Stone.' It was 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

Identified by its unique 'sea-under-the-sun' aesthetic with white needle-like inclusions. It is found exclusively in the Filipinas Mine in Los Checheses, Dominican Republic. Look for the distinct blue and white needle-like crystals of pectolite.