Dreamy, mesmerizing larimar is known by different names: “Dolphin stone” for the charming and intelligent ocean creature; “Caribbean gemstone” for its waves of ocean-blue color reminiscent of the waters near the Dominican Republic beach where it was found, and “Atlantis stone” for the belief by some that the Dominican Republic now stands where the legendary City of Atlantis fell.

Larimar History

Larimar was reportedly discovered in 1916 by Father Miguel Domingo Fuertes Loren, but wasn’t mined until decades later in 1974 when Dominican Miguel Méndez and Peace Corps volunteer Norman Rilling noticed a piece of larimar on the Barahonas province shoreline.

Named for Miguel’s daughter, Larissa, and “mar,” the Spanish word for “sea,” larimar captures the exquisite beauty of the Caribbean Sea.

Larimar Metaphysical Properties

Larimar is commonly believed to be a calming stone, offering many incredible healing powers.

It is considered by some to aid in communication and is associated with the crown, heart, third eye and throat chakras. Many alternative and holistic healers use larimar for a variety of physical, emotional and spiritual healing practices.

Larimar promotes relaxation in the wearer and can be used as a worry stone. Worry stones are smooth, polished gemstones typically in the shape of an oval which, when gently rubbed between the thumb and pointer finger, are said to create a soothing phenomenon.

Larimar Geological Properties

Larimar is a rare blue variety of pectolite. The serene blue color results from the substitution of cobalt for calcium in the stone and varies from white and light-blue to green-blue and deep blue or “volcanic blue.”

With swirling bands of white, larimar mimics the wave crests of crystal blue Caribbean waters.To date, the only known major deposits of larimar are found in the Dominican Republic where it was most likely treasured by the area’s first inhabitants, the Taino Indians.

The only known major larimar mine is in this remote, mountainous location in the Dominican province of Barahonas where locals still mine the stone from narrow crevices using primitive hand tools.

There are also some small mines where larimar is found in the United States and Canada.

Proper Care of Larimar

As larimar is a soft stone, rough handling, heat and chemicals should be avoided. It is for this reason designers tend to use larimar in necklace and earring designs over bracelets and rings to help avoid unnecessary impact that can cause damage to the stone.

To clean larimar, use warm, soapy water and dry thoroughly. Steamers and ultrasonic cleaners should be avoided.

Store larimar away from harder stones and other materials that could cause dents and other surface imperfections. A soft pouch is recommended.

To learn more about larimar and other gemstones, order your copy of Walter Schumann’s revised and expanded edition of Gemstones of the World.

Designing with Larimar

Many jewelry artists incorporate polished freeform larimar pendants and cabochons into necklaces and create earrings with larimar rounds and chips.

Freeform larimar stones can be used in wire-wrapped designs such as necklaces, rings, bracelets and earrings. Commonly seen paired with sterling silver, larimar gemstones are equally as gorgeous when paired with gold, copper and antiqued metals.