Larimar is the trade name for a rare blue variety of the silicate mineral Pectolite found only in the Dominican Republic, around the city of Barahona. Pectolite is an acid silicate hydrate of calcium & sodium. Pectolite is found in many locations, but Larimar has a unique volcanic blue coloration, which is the result of copper substitution for calcium.
Also known as the Atlantis Stone, Larimar is strongly associated with the legendary civilization. Many local stories told the tale that a blue crystal would be found near the location of Atlantis. This led to the belief that the discovery of Larimar in the Caribbean is proof that Atlantis is located in the Caribbean Ocean.
Larimar was reportedly discovered in 1916 by Father Miguel Domingo Fuertes Loren, but wasn't mined until decades later in 1974 when Dominican Miguel Méndez & Peace Corps volunteer Norman Rilling noticed a piece of Larimar on the Barahonas province shoreline. Named for Miguel's daughter, Larissa, and "mar," the Spanish word for sea, Larimar is said to capture the beauty of the Caribbean Sea.
Larimar is known as a calming stone & is said to possess incredible healing powers. Alternative & holistic healers employ the use of Larimar for a variety of physical, emotional & spiritual healing practices. Larimar is said to promote relaxation & may be used as a worry stone.
