In the vast world of gemstones, there exists a rare and enchanting beauty known as the Larimar gemstone. Often referred to as the "Atlantis Stone" or the "Dolphin Stone," Larimar is renowned for its captivating hues of blue reminiscent of the Caribbean Sea.

This exquisite gem discovered relatively recently, has captured the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts worldwide, including our local designers here in Cape Cod! You can find the Larimar stone throughout our silver shop collection.

Join us as we take a deeper look into its origin, characteristics, symbolism, and the reasons behind its growing popularity.

Unraveling the Origin and Discovery

Larimar's story begins in the Caribbean paradise of the Dominican Republic, specifically in the province of Barahona. It was in 1916 when a Spanish priest and a local, Miguel Méndez, stumbled upon this stone along the shores of the Bahoruco River. Initially mistaken for a rare form of blue pectolite, Larimar remained undiscovered for decades until it caught the attention of Miguel's daughter, who named it "Larimar" by combining her name, Larissa, with the Spanish word for sea, "mar."

Characteristics of Larimar Stone

Larimar Stone Necklace — Larimar & CZ Cluster Pendant with Silver Chain at LEXACO

Larimar is renowned for its striking blue hues ranging from light sky blue to deep turquoise, often interspersed with white, gray, or green matrix. This mesmerizing coloration is attributed to the presence of copper within the stone, which also contributes to its unique patterns and variations. Larimar exhibits a vitreous to silky luster when polished, enhancing its visual appeal. In terms of hardness, Larimar ranks between 4.5 and 5 on the Mohs scale, making it relatively durable for jewelry purposes.

Symbolism and Metaphysical Properties

Beyond its aesthetic allure, Larimar is believed to possess spiritual and metaphysical properties. It is often associated with tranquility, relaxation, and a deep connection to the sea. Some believe that Larimar carries the energy of the ocean, promoting inner peace, clarity, and emotional healing. As a stone of the throat chakra, Larimar is thought to facilitate clear communication and expression, empowering individuals to speak their truth with confidence and compassion. Additionally, Larimar is said to resonate with the element of water, fostering a sense of flow and fluidity in life.

Popular Larimar Jewelry Styles

The enchanting beauty of Larimar has inspired the creation of a wide array of jewelry pieces, ranging from understated elegance to statement designs. One of the most popular Larimar jewelry styles is the classic Larimar pendant, which showcases the stone's captivating color and pattern suspended from a delicate chain. Larimar rings are also highly sought after, with designs ranging from simple solitaires to intricate cocktail rings with accent stones. Larimar bracelets and earrings offer additional options for incorporating this stunning gemstone into one's jewelry collection.

Larimar's Growing Popularity

Larimar Long Oval Hook Earrings at LEXACO

In recent years, Larimar has experienced a surge in popularity among jewelry enthusiasts and collectors worldwide. Its rarity, coupled with its beauty and metaphysical properties, has contributed to its appeal. Additionally, the rise of sustainable and ethically sourced gemstones has led to increased interest in Larimar, as it is primarily mined in small quantities from a single location, making each piece truly unique. The growing trend of incorporating nature-inspired elements into jewelry design has positioned Larimar as a must-have gemstone for those seeking to connect with the beauty of the natural world.

Caring for Larimar Jewelry

Like any precious gemstone, Larimar jewelry requires proper care to maintain its beauty and luster over time. To prevent scratching or damage, it is advisable to store Larimar jewelry separately from other pieces, ideally in a soft pouch or jewelry box. Avoid exposing Larimar to harsh chemicals, perfumes, or prolonged sunlight, as these can cause discoloration or deterioration of the stone. To clean Larimar jewelry, simply use a soft cloth dampened with mild soap and warm water, gently wiping away any dirt or residue. Periodic professional cleaning and inspection by a reputable jeweler can help ensure that your Larimar jewelry remains in pristine condition for years to come.

Loving Larimar

In the world of gemstones, few can rival the captivating beauty and allure of Larimar. From its origins in the Caribbean to its symbolism and metaphysical properties, Larimar’s inevitable popularity in the jewelry world is on the rise. Whether worn as a pendant, ring, bracelet, or earrings, Larimar jewelry serves as a timeless reminder of the sea's tranquility and the beauty of nature. Embrace the enchantment of Larimar and treat yourself to a piece of the Caribbean's mesmerizing beauty!

Browse our new Larimar arrivals HERE.

Larimar Stone - A Gem of the Caribbean