Larimar
blue · Pectolite family
| Also known as | Pectolite (Pectolite family) |
|---|---|
| Colour | Blue, Green |
| Mohs hardness | 4.5 - 5 |
| Lustre | Silky, subvitreous |
| Streak | White |
| Crystal system | Triclinic |
| Transparency | Translucent to opaque |
| Cleavage | Perfect on {100} and {001} |
| Fracture | Uneven |
| Chemical formula | NaCa 2 Si 3 O 8 (OH) |
| Specific gravity | 2.84 - 2.90 |
What is Larimar?
Larimar is the tradename for a rare blue variety of the silicate mineral pectolite found only in the Dominican Republic, around the city of Barahona. Its coloration varies from bluish white, light-blue, light-green, green-blue, turquoise blue, turquoise green, turquoise blue-green, deep green, dark green, to deep blue, dark blue and purple, violet and indigo and the larimar can come in many varieties and color mixes.
How to identify Larimar
- Lustre: Silky, subvitreous.
- Hardness: Mohs 4.5 - 5 — soft; a knife will scratch it.
- Streak: White.
- Habit: Triclinic crystal system.
Larimar in different forms
Stones often confused with Larimar
Frequently asked questions
How hard is Larimar?
Larimar is Mohs 4.5 - 5 on the hardness scale.
What colour is Larimar?
Larimar is typically blue, green (Shades of blue, blue-green).