Larimar
Larimar is a beautiful, light blue, semi-precious stone found nowhere else on earth. It can be found only in just one remote area of the Dominican Republic.
How was it created?
The same volcanic forces which created the island itself forged this exquisite gem.
Hot gases pushed molten material into the volcano's chimneys, causing its minerals to crystallize and create the stone's unique properties. Over the eons, erosion caused bits of the stone to break off, washing them into the Bahoruco River where they tumbled against rocks and other debris.
By the time the stones reached the river's end at the beach, this polishing action revealed the marbled sea-blue, green, and white hues which this beautiful stone is now prized for.
Discovery
larimar By 1916, at least one person knew where to find it - a priest in Barahona parish, who applied for the right to set up a mining operation. His application was never approved, however, and Larimar remained shrouded in mystery for years to come.
In fact, it continued to go unnoticed by the world at large until 1974, when geologist Miguel Mendez and Peace Corps volunteer Norman Rilling found some of the stones on the beach.
larimar They followed the stream up the mountain, eventually arriving at Los Chupaderos, where most of the mining today. Miguel Mendez named the stone by combining his daughter's name, "Larissa," with "mar", the Spanish word for sea.
See right some earrings
Because of its coloring, it can sometimes mistaken for turquoise or blue jade.
The "Atlantis" stone
Because of claims that the Dominican Republic was the ancient site of Atlantis, symbolized by dolphins, some people call it "the Atlantis Stone" or "the Dolphin Stone."
larimar According to folklore, this rare gem helps relieve stress, radiates healing energy, aids communication, and enlightens the mind.
There is also even a Larimar Museum in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic's capital city. Located in a well-restored historic building, the museum contains exhibits about the gem and a store with hand-made jewellery.
Larimar
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