Larimar Gemstone Beads
Larimar is a rare gemstone, and is found only in the Dominican Republic. It is formed by volcanic activities and is a variety of pectolite, the only one of its blue kind. Its striking blue color, interwoven with patterns of white, mimics the tranquil Caribbean Sea. It is not only a geological wonder but also a visually captivating material for any jewelry piece.
Facts: Larimar is not only beautiful but also steeped in rich history and lore. Discovered in the 1970s by a Peace Corps volunteer and named after his daughter Larissa combined with 'mar,' the Spanish word for sea, Larimar has since been treasured as a gemstone that embodies the essence of the Caribbean. Artisans and collectors worldwide value it for its colors and unique origin.
Metaphysical / Holistic: Believed to embody the tranquil energies of the sea itself, Larimar is said to promote relaxation, calmness, and peace. It helps to soothe emotions and stress, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a piece that is as spiritually beneficial as it is aesthetically pleasing.
Larimar Gemstone Beads for Stunning Ocean-Inspired Jewelry
Larimar 5x8mm Chip - 15-16 Inch
Original price
$20.00
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Original price
$20.00
Original price
$20.00
$20.00
-
$20.00
Larimar is a translucent blue, turquoise and white stone that can have streaks and patterns of white, as well as red or brown either from oxidation...
View full details
Original price
$20.00
-
Original price
$20.00
Original price
$20.00
$20.00
-
$20.00
About this stone
Color
Sky BlueDeep BlueVolcanic BlueWhite-Blue
Origin
Dominican Republic (Barahona)
Mohs hardness
4.5–5
Treatment categories
Natural
Industry-standard treatment
None — larimar is typically untreated
Mineral chemistry
Blue variety of pectolite (sodium calcium silicate hydroxide)
Crystal system
Triclinic
Stone family
Pectolite
Common cuts
RoundSmoothFreeformRondelle
Common sizes
6mm8mm10mm
Care notes
Soft (Mohs 4.5–5) and photosensitive. Avoid prolonged sun, ultrasonic, steam, and chemicals. Soft cloth only. Best for necklaces, earrings, pendants.
Related stones
Turquoise, Amazonite, Aquamarine
Frequently asked questions
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Is larimar really only found in the Dominican Republic?
Yes. Larimar is a localized variety of pectolite formed under unique geological conditions in volcanic basalt cavities in the Sierra de Bahoruco, near Barahona on the south coast of the Dominican Republic. There is no second source anywhere in the world. This single-source geology is why supply is finite and prices have moved upward over time. -
What's the difference between sky blue, deep blue, and volcanic blue larimar?
Color saturation tiers. Sky Blue is the broadest current supply — pale to medium blue with visible white wave patterning. Deep Blue is more saturated and cleaner-patterned. Volcanic Blue is the deepest natural saturation — intense ocean-storm blue with minimal white — rare in any size and exceptionally rare in calibrated beads. Color tier should be specified — ask before buying if it isn't. -
Is your larimar real?
Larimar is the blue pectolite found only in the Dominican Republic. The bead market has a serious counterfeit problem: dyed quartz, dyed howlite, dyed magnesite, dyed glass, and composite material are commonly sold as "larimar" in the broader trade. Specialist sources estimate the larimar bead market is largely counterfeit at the lowest price points. Provenance — supplier chain back to the Sierra de Bahoruco region — should be available on request for any strand. Ask before buying if origin or material identity can't be specified. -
Why has larimar gotten more expensive?
Three factors: the primary mine (Las Filipinas) has had repeated safety closures since 2022 and produces below pre-2022 levels; raw larimar export from the Dominican Republic has been regulated since the mid-2010s, adding cost to the chain; and designer demand has grown materially over the last several years. Combined, supply has tightened against rising demand. Volcanic Blue tier especially is supply-constrained and sold as it is sourced. -
Will my larimar fade in sunlight?
Possibly, with prolonged direct exposure. Larimar is photosensitive — sustained sunlight and heat can lighten saturated material over time, particularly at the deeper-blue end of the color tier. Normal wear is fine; avoid storing finished pieces in sunny windows or wearing for long outdoor exposure on dark fabric.