Meaning & symbolism
Larimar is the trade name for blue pectolite, a fibrous sodium calcium silicate known only from the Bahoruco mountains of Barahona province in the Dominican Republic. It formed in cavities and veins of altered basalt and shows sky blue to deep blue colours marbled with white, usually attributed to copper. Named in 1974 by Miguel Mendez from his daughter Larissa's name and mar, the Spanish word for sea.
Healing properties
Geology
- Blue variety of pectolite, triclinic
- NaCa2Si3O8(OH)
- Only known source: Barahona province, Dominican Republic
- About 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale, may fade in strong sun
Traditional associations
- Calm, clear speech
- Emotional cooling
- Rest after caring for others
How to use it
Traditionally worn as a pendant or earrings before a difficult conversation, held during a surge of anger or worry, or placed on the throat in meditation. These are traditional uses, not medical advice.
Cleansing & care
Soft (Mohs 4.5 to 5) and light sensitive. Keep out of direct sun and heat, store apart from harder stones, clean with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth, then dry. No salt, long soaks, acids, ultrasonic or steam cleaners. Recharge by moonlight, not sunlight.
Questions & answers
Every known deposit of larimar is in the Bahoruco mountains of Barahona province, in the southwest of the Dominican Republic.
