What is larimar?
Larimar is a rare variety of pectolite, a mineral composed of sodium and calcium silicate. But what truly makes it unique is its color. Its shades of blue—ranging from soft sky blue to deep turquoise, with white or greenish streaks—resemble the Caribbean Sea under the sun. This special hue comes from the copper content in its composition.
Even though its beauty feels like something out of a legend, larimar was officially discovered in 1974, making it a relatively recent addition to the world of gemology. Since then, it has become a true emblem of the island, not only for its rarity but also for its connection to the local culture of Cayo Levantado and other areas in the south of the country.
Rough larimar
Seeing larimar in its raw state is a completely different experience from admiring a polished jewel. In its natural form, it appears inside volcanic rocks with veins of color ranging from white to intense blue. These veins can be thin like threads or thick like roots running through the stone. Sometimes, it also contains other minerals that give it an even more original look.
Dominican artisans work with larimar with deep respect for its natural form. They cut, polish, and shape each piece using traditional techniques passed down through generations. Many of these treasures are crafted in workshops near Cayo Levantado, where the sea, mountains, and history intertwine in every creation.
Where to find larimar?
Here comes the most incredible part: larimar is found only in the Dominican Republic. More specifically, in the province of Barahona, in the southwest of the country. It’s the only active mine in the world where this gemstone is extracted, making it a true Caribbean treasure.
The mining of larimar is done by hand, using artisanal methods. Miners descend into narrow, deep tunnels in search of the purest veins—a task that requires patience, technique, and dedication. They do this with deep respect for the environment, protecting both the landscape and the communities that depend on this tradition.
By purchasing authentic, responsibly sourced larimar, you’re directly supporting the families who keep this tradition alive and the local economy. At places like Cayo Levantado Resort, that connection to the land, sustainability, and natural beauty is deeply valued, and larimar is part of that cultural identity.
Properties of larimar
Beyond its captivating appearance, larimar is believed to hold emotional and spiritual healing properties. Many consider it a powerful stone for those seeking balance and serenity in their daily lives.
Some of its most noted properties include:
- Promotes inner peace: Its soft energy helps calm the mind, reduce stress, and ease emotional tension. It’s ideal for moments of introspection and stillness.
- Enhances communication: Larimar is said to support clear and assertive expression, boosting empathy and emotional understanding.
- Stimulates creativity: Its fresh, vibrant energy is known to awaken inspiration and support artistic or spiritual expression.
Many people wear larimar as a talisman or incorporate it into meditation practices. Wearing a piece of larimar is like carrying a fragment of the Caribbean Sea with you—a constant source of peace and positive energy.
Spiritual meaning of the larimar stone
Larimar is also known as the “stone of the Atlantic” or the “dolphin stone” due to its association with water, harmony, and freedom. Spiritually, it is linked to the element of water, feminine energy, and inner wisdom. It’s a stone that invites us to flow, to release, and to reconnect with our truest selves.
For those seeking emotional support, the spiritual meaning of larimar is connected to the throat chakra, which governs communication, personal expression, and truth. It’s also related to the heart chakra, helping to heal emotional wounds and open oneself to love—both for others and oneself.
In places like Cayo Levantado, where nature encourages silence, rest, and reflection, wearing larimar can become a symbol of that personal and spiritual journey we undertake when we disconnect from the world and reconnect with ourselves.
Larimar isn’t just a beautiful gemstone. It’s a natural jewel filled with symbolism, history, and energy. A living representation of what the Dominican Republic truly is: color, culture, warmth, and a deep connection to both land and sea.
So if you ever find yourself walking along the beaches of Samaná, hiking through the island’s trails, or relaxing at Cayo Levantado Resort, don’t be surprised if the blue of the ocean reminds you of larimar. Because in essence, they are two reflections of the same beauty.
