As a recent discovery found only in the
Dominican Republic, Caribbean, the beautiful
blue stone larimar is very rare.
The Larimar Discovery
A priest of the Barahona Parish first
discovered a mine of blue rock, but was
denied rights to it in 1916. In 1974, Miguel
Mendez and Norman Riling rediscovered the
stone, according to Wikipedia. Mendez
combined the name of his daughter (Larissa)
and the Spanish word for sea (mar) to name
the stone ‘Larimar.’
Unique Composition and Coloring
Larimar is mainly composed of pectolite, an acid silicate hydrate of calcium and
sodium. However, instead of calcium, Larimar includes copper, which is
responsible for its uniquely beautiful volcanic blue coloring. It occurs as
needle-like crystals, grown together in cavities within lava. Larimar is found in a
variety of blues and blue-greens, often with white or even brown spots.
Like many stones, such as amethyst and rose quartz, Larimar is photosensitive
and fades over time if exposed to too much light or heat. This is not a stone to be
worn outside for extended periods of time.
Use in Jewelry
Larimar jewelry is a local favorite in the
Caribbean. It’s usually set in silver but is
sometimes set in gold. It has become
available in other countries and is growing in
popularity. It’s popular in necklaces, bracelets,
earrings and rings.
Meaning of Larimar
Some believe this stone to be healing to the
throat area and to enhance the wearer’s
courage in speech and communication skills.
It may also help in talking about emotions as well as sooth emotions and relieve
stress. Some use larimar as a ‘worry stone.’
Ranging from white and light-blue to
green-blue and deep blue, it’s said to
embody the tranquil colors of the sea
and sky of the Caribbean. Larimar is
sometimes called the ‘Caribbean
Gem,’ ‘Dominican Turquoise,’ ‘Dolphin
Stone,’ ‘Stefilia’s Stone’ and perhaps
other coined names.
DIY or Have It Custom Made
You can make your own jewelry with larimar gemstones. They’re available online
at Ny6Designs Beads and Jewelry Supply and at the store at 1023 S. Greenville
Ave., Allen, TX.
Don’t know how to make jewelry? No worries. You may want to take a class or
inquire about our custom-made jewelry service. Phone 214-509- 6700.
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