Updated as of June 2026
Larimar
A rare sky-blue pectolite found only in the Dominican Republic, tied to calm, serenity, and communication.
Price range$10 to $150/ct
Hardness (Mohs)5
ColorsBlue, Blue-green, White
BirthstoneNone
AltGems Score How we score
5.4/10
Larimar pros and cons
Pros
- Strong value for the look
- Usually sold untreated
Cons
- Softer at Mohs 5, best in protected settings
- Quality varies widely, so compare before buying
Larimar is best kept for earrings, pendants, and protected settings rather than rough daily wear.
Explore Larimar
Meaning and properties
Symbolism, zodiac, chakraPrice and value
What it costs and whyBuying guide
How to choose and where to buyCare and cleaning
Keep it looking its bestLarimar jewelry
Larimar ringsLarimar engagement ringsLarimar necklacesLarimar pendantsLarimar earringsLarimar bracelets
Common buying mistakes
- Buying on carat weight alone instead of color and cut, which drive beauty more.
- Skipping treatment disclosure, which changes both value and care.
- Setting this softer stone (Mohs 5) in an exposed daily-wear ring instead of a protective bezel or halo.
- Cleaning it the wrong way. Moderately soft and can fade in sunlight. Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid heat, chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners.
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Where to buy Larimar: for fine pieces, choose established jewelers with clear return policies and lab reports; for unique or budget pieces, vetted marketplace sellers work well. Always confirm treatment and the return window before buying. AltGems prices are general per-carat guides, so verify value with a certified gemologist or GIA report.
Frequently asked questions
What is Larimar?
A rare sky-blue pectolite found only in the Dominican Republic, tied to calm, serenity, and communication. It rates 5 on the Mohs hardness scale and commonly appears in blue, blue-green, white.
How much does Larimar cost?
Larimar typically runs about $10 to $150 per carat depending on color, clarity, cut, and origin. See our Larimar price guide for detail.
Is Larimar good for everyday jewelry?
It rates 5 on the Mohs scale, so it suits earrings, pendants, and occasional-wear rings better than daily rough use.
What is the AltGems Score for Larimar?
Larimar earns an overall AltGems Score of 5.4 out of 10, balancing durability, brilliance, value, rarity, and everyday wearability. See our methodology on the How We Score page.
How do I care for Larimar?
Moderately soft and can fade in sunlight. Clean with a soft damp cloth. Avoid heat, chemicals, and ultrasonic cleaners.