All About Larimar
Welcome to Sunlight Silver Jewelry, where each piece tells a unique story, crafted with passion and care. Today, we're excited to introduce you to one of the treasures of our collection: Larimar, a gemstone that’s as rare as it is beautiful! Known as the "Stone of Tranquility," its mesmerizing blue hues echo the calm of the Caribbean seas. In this post, we'll explore the allure and significance of this captivating stone and how it elevates our handmade jewelry.
What is Larimar?
Larimar is a rare gem found only in the Dominican Republic, making it a unique and valuable addition to any jewelry collection. Its stunning blue tones range from soft sky blues to deep oceanic hues, often streaked with white, resembling the waves crashing against the shoreline. It was officially discovered in 1974, although locals had long prized its beauty.
Larimar's Ancient Beginnings:
There’s evidence that indigenous people of the Caribbean were aware of the stone long before. The Taíno people, native to the Dominican Republic, are believed to have found and used larimar in amulets, jewelry, and other adornments. It is said that they associated it’s soothing blue color with the sea and the sky, attributing spiritual significance to the stone.
Baharona locals were also aware of the beautiful blue stone. They found it along the seashore and believed that it might have been produced by the sea, or by the earth's volcanic movements. Legend said some people even followed a stream until they discovered what they believed to be the source of the stone.
Until the 19th century, larimar remained a hidden gem among the local peoples, prized for its beauty and mystery.
Larimar's Modern Discovery:
In 1916, Miguel Domingo Fuertes de Loren, a priest from the Baharona parish, made a request to mine for the blue rock, but the request was denied because the stone was not yet known or valued.
Later, in 1974, Norman Rilling, a member of the US Peace Corps, and Miguel Mendez, a local Dominican craftsman, stumbled upon blue stones washed up on the beach of Barahona. Intrigued by the stone’s striking blue color which was unlike anything they'd seen before, they explored a river upstream to find the source of the rocks.
The name "larimar" was coined by Méndez, combining "Larissa," the name of his daughter, and "mar," the Spanish word for "sea," reflecting both its blue hues and its connection to the ocean.
Where is Larimar Found?
Larimar is only found in one place - a small 1/2 square mile in the mountains above Baoruco in the Dominican Republic. The stone is found in volcanic cavities, and mining it is a difficult and labor-intensive process. The mines are located in steep, mountainous regions, and miners work in small, family-owned operations, making this unique stone a true artisanal product.
Larimar's Unique Geology:
Larimar is a volcanic stone that has taken millions of years to be created. It is formed when hot gases push crystallized minerals up through volcanic tubes. Most Larimar is found "in situ", meaning it is found where it was formed.
Larimar is a type of pectolite, a mineral commonly found in white or gray. Though many forms of pectolite are found throughout the world, Larimar is the only blue-colored pectolite in the world. The blue color is caused by copper inclusions. Its rarity and beauty make it highly sought after by collectors and jewelry makers.
From Local Secrets to Global Treasure:
After its rediscovery, larimar gradually gained recognition beyond the Dominican Republic. During the 1980s and 1990s, it became more widely known, particularly among jewelers and collectors. Its growing popularity was boosted by the belief that it is the "Atlantis Stone," connected to the mythical lost city of Atlantis. This theory was put forward by the renowned psychic Edgar Cayce, who predicted that a blue stone with healing properties would be found in the Caribbean, further fueling the stone’s mystical allure.
Today, Larimar is considered the stone of the Dominican Republic. Since 2018, November 22 has been celebrated as National Larimar Day in memory of the date the priest, Miguel Domingo Fuertes de Loren, discovered the stone in 1916.
The Meaning Behind Larimar:
More than just a beautiful stone, larimar carries deep metaphysical significance. It is considered a healing stone. It is said to increase speech and communication skills as well as supporting the body's natural healing.
Many believe Larimar embodies the soothing energy of water, promoting peace, clarity, and emotional healing. Often referred to as the "Dolphin Stone" or the "Atlantis Stone," it is said to strengthen spiritual connections and enhance relaxation. For those seeking balance, tranquility, and calm, wearing this beautiful blue stone is a way to stay connected to nature’s peaceful elements.
Today, larimar is treasured worldwide for its rarity, beauty, and metaphysical properties. However, because it’s found in only one location, it remains relatively scarce, increasing its value and desirability in the jewelry market.
Caring for Your Larimar Jewelry:
To keep your larimar jewelry looking its best, it's important to handle it with care. Avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals, Gently clean your jewelry with a soft cloth and mild soap to maintain its vibrant shine.
From time to time, wash your pieces with clean fresh water and mild soap. Use a soft brush or silver polishing cloth to clean any dirt from the sterling silver. You may notice that the Larimar stone may turn slightly more blue due to water absorption.
Always keep your Larimar in a cool dry box when you aren't wearing it. Avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, extreme heat, or prolonged sun exposure, as this can affect the stone’s color.
We recommend that you remove your jewelry when showering, washing your hands or have any contact with harsh chemicals. If you live in an arid environment the dramatic change in humidity could cause cracking.
Avoid wearing your Larimar jewelry in swimming pools, saunas, or jacuzzis as chlorine can damage the stone.
Larimar is more than just a gemstone — it's a symbol of tranquility, beauty, and connection to the earth. At Sunlight Silver Jewelry, we're proud to offer handcrafted larimar jewelry that reflects our commitment to quality and artistry. Explore our Larimar collection today and find a piece that resonates with you.
Lovely stone , looking to purchase rough stone to CAB . I have read it’s a soft stone ?
I bought a necklace with a beautifull larimar stone 2 years ago. I’m so in peace with…Thanks you for everything Julie 😊 !
Hi from Biscarrosse 🌊 !
Leave a comment