Larimar (natural blue Pectolite)

Item Description

This a nice example of these distinctive and unique gems from the Dominican Republic, which are marketed under the name Larimar. This term does not refer to an actual mineral/gem, it is simply the trade name that is designated to the natural (untreated) light blue, massive Pectolite found at the Filipinas Larimar Mine. Pectolite is typically white or cream colored in nature, but the rare blue shade in these stones is due to copper content. The Filipinas Larimar Mine is the only place in the world where blue Pectolite is found. The actual name "Larimar" is a combination of "Larissa", which was the name of the daughter of Dominican geologist, Miguel Mendez who originally named the material, and "Mar", which is the Spanish word for sea, as it resembles the crystal blue Caribbean Sea. This is an attractive Larimar gem with an "Oval Cabochon" cut and a beautiful light blue shade. These stones are becoming increasingly more popular among collectors, jewelers and dealers due to their durability, size and alluring color.