Larimar meaning: the Caribbean-blue stone from the Dominican Republic

A stone from one famous place

Larimar is the blue variety of pectolite, a mineral that is usually white or gray. Its blue color comes from copper replacing some of the calcium. The best-known source, and for a long time the only commercial one, is the Dominican Republic, which is why it is often called the Dominican stone. The name is commonly said to combine the name of the discoverer's daughter, Larissa, with the Spanish word for sea, mar.

What it is traditionally associated with

In crystal culture, larimar is linked with serenity, gentle communication and the feeling of being near water, and some people connect it with the throat and heart chakras. Many see it as a vacation in a pebble. That is a pleasant image and a cultural tradition, not a medical claim.

Everyday ways to use it

• Wear it as a pendant to bring a bit of seaside color to a plain outfit.
• Keep a polished stone on your desk to look at during a busy day.
• Hold it while you take a few slow breaths.
• Give it as a memento of a trip to the Caribbean.

Care and cleaning

Larimar is relatively soft and can lose its color if exposed to strong sun or heat for a long time. Keep it out of hot cars and bright windows, and avoid steam and ultrasonic cleaners. Clean with a soft cloth and a little lukewarm water, then dry thoroughly. Keep it away from hard surfaces and harder stones.

Real or fake?

Because larimar is so popular, many lookalikes exist, including dyed howlite, blue glass and resin. Genuine larimar shows soft, irregular white and blue swirls, sometimes with brown or red inclusions. A flat, uniform color suggests dye or glass. For pricier pieces, buy from sellers who can name the source.