What is larimar jewelry, and where is it from?

Larimar, often referred to as the “Atlantis Stone,” is a captivating gemstone known for its striking blue hues reminiscent of the Caribbean Sea.  With its unique aesthetic and tropical appeal, larimar jewelry has become a popular choice for those seeking a vibrant and stylish look, especially during vacation seasons and summer.

Found exclusively in the Dominican Republic, larimar is a rare blue variety of the mineral pectolite. The name “larimar” is from the name Larissa (the daughter of the stone’s discoverer) and “mar,” the Spanish word for sea. Legend has it that larimar is linked to the lost city of Atlantis, adding an extra layer of mystique to its allure.

Wear It With Style: Larimar Jewelry

Why larimar jewelry should be in your wardrobe

Larimar jewelry is incredibly versatile, seamlessly complementing a range of styles and outfits. Whether you're dressing up for a special occasion or opting for a casual look, larimar adds a touch of sophistication to any ensemble. From earrings and necklaces to rings and bracelets, larimar pieces are available in diverse styles to suit your preferences.

No two larimar stones are alike, making each piece of larimar jewelry a unique work of art. The stone’s varying shades and marbled patterns ensure that your larimar piece is one-of-a-kind, adding a distinctive element to your jewelry wardrobe.

Four ideas for styling larimar jewelry

Vacation-Ready Chic:

Larimar is a perfect choice for vacation season, radiating a tropical vibe.  Consider pairing larimar jewelry with outfits that reflect the colors of the sea and the lush greenery of tropical landscapes.

While larimar is striking when worn with colors of the sea, also try it with solids like red, blue or purple to create a stunning look.

When out for a casual dinner, pair elegant larimar earrings with a beautiful larimar bracelet and ring - complete the look with a white t-shirt and jeans. Also, for an easy-going-casual look, you can match your larimar jewelry with leather or woven textures to present an “earthy” feel.

A model wears a larimar necklace and bracelets.

Layering and Stacking:

Larimar works well with layered jewelry styles to create a Bohemian look.
Experiment with stacking larimar rings alongside other gemstone rings and bracelets to create a personalized and eclectic vibe.

Casual Elegance:

While larimar is often associated with vacation wear, it can also be incorporated into more elegant outfits. Pair a larimar pendant with a simple blouse or dress for a touch of casual elegance. For a polished ensemble, select a statement piece pendant and pair with larimar studs to create a sophisticated look.

Pairing with other Gemstones:

Larimar pairs well with other gemstones like turquoise, moonstone and aquamarine. Experiment with combinations to create stunning looks.

Is larimar and turquoise jewelry similar?

While larimar and turquoise jewelry share a propensity for captivating blue shades, they are distinct with unique characteristics. While larimar is a rare variety of pectolite, a mineral composed of calcium and sodium; turquoise is a phosphate mineral that contains copper and aluminum. 
 
Larimar jewelry has a range of blue hues, from light sky blue to deep ocean blue, often with marbled patterns. Turquoise jewelry features a spectrum of blue and green shades, with veins of matrix running through the stone. And finally, larimar is only found in the Dominican Republic while turquoise is mined in various locations worldwide, including the United States, Iran and China.
 
While both gemstone jewelry are revered for their beauty, larimar’s distinctiveness lies in its limited geographic origin and unique blue patterns.

How do you care for larimar jewelry?

Avoid using harsh chemicals and do not use steamers or ultrasonic cleaners. Use a soft, damp cloth and warm soapy water to remove dirt or oils.  After cleaning, dry thoroughly.
 
Store larimar jewelry in a soft pouch or jewelry box to prevent scratches and minimize exposure to air and moisture.

Frequently Asked Questions about larimar

Question:            Is larimar jewelry valuable?
Answer:               Yes, larimar jewelry is considered valuable and its gemstone is relatively rare. Larimar’s limited geographic origin contributes to its scarcity, enhancing its value.
 

Question:            Can larimar jewelry be worn daily?
Answer:              While larimar is a durable gemstone, it is advisable to avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals or extreme conditions.  Regular care such as avoiding contact with lotions and perfumes will help maintain its beauty. 
 

Question:            Does larimar jewelry have healing properties?
Answer:               Some believe that larimar jewelry possesses metaphysical properties associated with emotional healing, communication and tranquility.  However, these beliefs are subjective, and individual experiences vary. 
 

Question:            Can larimar jewelry be worn with any outfit?
Answer:               Absolutely! Larimar’s versatile blue tones make it a versatile jewelry piece that can be paired with a wide range of colors and styles. Whether you’re going for a casual look or dressing up for an elegant event.


Question:            Where can I buy larimar jewelry?
Answer:               JTV! We have an amazing assortment of larimar jewelry on our website here. Browse our stunning selection of larimar pendants, rings or earrings and wear it how you want!

Summary

Larimar jewelry is a piece of nature’s artistry that enchants with its beauty. With its unique qualities and rich history, adding larimar jewelry to your wardrobe will provide you with versatility and timeless appeal.  Whether you are drawn to its aesthetic charm or connection to nature, larimar is undoubtedly a gem worth owning and cherishing for years to come.

Embrace the allure of the Caribbean with larimar jewelry and make a fashion statement that reflects your unique style!