Larimar

Where is Larimar Found?

Larimar is mined only in the Dominican Republic, in the Caribbean. It was formed in volcanic rock, specifically in cavities and vesicles within basaltic lava flows. The mineral-rich volcanic gases and liquids that are present in these cavities reacted with the surrounding rock, causing the formation of pectolite crystals. Over time, these crystals are altered by the presence of copper, which gives larimar its distinctive blue colour.

Efforts are being made to promote sustainable mining practices to ensure that the gemstone can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Who discovered Larimar?

The history of larimar is relatively short. It can be traced back to the 1970s, when a local Dominican artist and a Peace Corps volunteer named Miguel Mendez discovered the stone on a beach in the province of Barahona. They named the stone “larimar,” which is a combination of the artist’s daughter’s name, “Larissa,” and the Spanish word for “sea,” “mar.” The discovery of larimar was significant, as it was the first time this stone had been found anywhere in the world.

What is larimar good for?

Larimar is a relatively soft stone, which makes it difficult to cut and polish. However, when properly cut and polished, larimar has a beautiful, lustrous surface that is highly valued by jewellery makers and collectors alike.

Larimar beads can be used to make necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. The stone’s unique blue colour and marbled appearance make it a popular choice for beach-inspired jewellery and bohemian-style accessories.

Larimar Crystal Properties

Larimar gemstone is believed to have metaphysical properties, including the ability to promote relaxation, reduce stress, and enhance communication and creativity. This gemstone is highly respected due to these larimar crystal meanings associated with crystal energies and healing.

Larimar is associated with the throat chakra, which is located in the throat area and is associated with communication, expression, and creativity. It is said to help those who wear it to communicate their truth more effectively, to overcome communication barriers, and to speak with clarity and conviction.

In addition to its association with the throat chakra, larimar is sometimes also associated with the heart chakra, which is located in the chest area and is associated with love, compassion, and emotional healing. It is said to help those who wear it to release negative emotions and to open themselves up to love and positive energy.

The use of larimar in chakra healing and balancing is based on the idea that gemstones and crystals have unique energies and vibrations that can interact with the energy centres of the body. Many people find that wearing larimar or using it in meditation can be a helpful tool for promoting relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being.

Why is larimar so expensive and rare?

Larimar is rare and expensive for several reasons. Firstly, it is only found in one location in the world, which is in the southwestern part of the Dominican Republic. This makes it a highly localised resource, with a very limited amount in the ground.

Secondly, larimar is a relatively new discovery, having been first discovered in the 1970s by a Dominican man. The stone was not widely known outside of the Dominican Republic until the 1990s, and it only gained popularity as a gemstone for jewellery making in the 2000s. As a result, the supply of larimar is limited compared to other gemstones that have been known and used for centuries.

Thirdly, larimar is very difficult to mine and extract from the volcanic rock in which it is found. The mining process requires specialized equipment and techniques to avoid damaging the delicate crystal structure of the larimar. This adds to the cost and complexity of extracting the stone and can result in a lower yield of high-quality larimar.

Finally, larimar is a highly sought-after gemstone for its unique beauty and metaphysical properties. Its blue colour and marbled patterns make it a popular choice for beach-inspired and bohemian-style jewellery, and its association with relaxation and stress reduction has made it a popular stone for those interested in alternative and holistic healing practices.

Essentially, the rarity and expense of larimar are a result of its limited supply, the difficulty of mining and extracting it, and its popularity as a unique and desirable gemstone.

How to make a Larimar Bracelet and Necklace

There are pre-made larimar crystal necklaces and bracelets in Australia, however the rarity means the cost is often quite high. But don’t let that stop you wearing this amazing stone!

You can quickly and easily make a gorgeous larimar bracelet with nothing more than beads and elastic thread. We’d suggest an 0.8mm Stretch Magic. Due to the cost of larimar, it would be a good idea to consider using it as a feature in a design incorporating other beads. Since larimar is found in lava, a popular choice is to make a lava bracelet with a few larimar beads as a feature.

Making a larimar necklace is also quite easy. Lay out your beads into your desired design, then thread them in order onto flex-rite beading wire. Crimp the ends, add a clasp and you’re done! Create your own unique larimar jewellery in Australia from these genuine crystal beads.

Whole you’re on a roll, why not make some matching larimar earrings too? Larimar jewellery is gorgeous and fresh, and its rarity will make it a conversation starter as well. Using your creativity, have a think about making a larimar pendant too. A single larimar bead with a few complimentary elements can make a simple and stunning pendant to hang off a simple chain.

Where can you find Larimar for Sale in Australia?

Beads N Crystals stocks this rare and beautiful gemstone. Larimar beads are on sale at our store near you in Brisbane and online. All the way from the Dominican Republic, where larimar is considered a national treasure and a source of pride for the country. Rest assured when you buy larimar from Beads N Crystals, you’re getting genuine natural stone sourced ethically in the Dominican Republic.