What is Larimar?
The Discovery of Larimar
Larimar is one of the rarest gemstones in the world, admired for its captivating shades of blue that mirror the Caribbean Sea. Also called the Atlantis Stone or Caribbean Blue Stone, it is a true national treasure of the Dominican Republic, as it is found nowhere else on Earth.
But what exactly is Larimar? How was it discovered, where can you find it, and how can you be sure you are buying an authentic, high-quality stone? Let’s explore the fascinating story behind this unique gem.
Although officially rediscovered in the 1970s, Larimar’s story began much earlier. For generations, locals in the Barahona region had spotted unusual blue pebbles washed up along the shores. Many believed that the sea itself was giving birth to the stone.
The truth was revealed when explorers traced the stones upstream and discovered they originated from volcanic deposits in the mountains of Barahona. This was a breakthrough moment: Larimar wasn’t a gift from the ocean but a gemstone hidden in the earth.
The name Larimar was coined by Miguel Méndez, who combined his daughter’s name Larissa with the Spanish word mar (meaning “sea”)—a perfect reflection of its ocean-like beauty.
Where Can Larimar Be Found?
Larimar is exclusive to the Dominican Republic and mined only in the province of Barahona. No other location in the world produces this gemstone, which makes it incredibly rare.
In the past, adventurous travelers could visit the mines, but for safety reasons, they are now closed to the public.
Instead, with Tropical Evasion, visitors can enjoy an exclusive excursion: first, searching for small fragments of Larimar in a natural hidden area near Barahona, and then taking them to a local artisan’s workshop to see how the stones are cut and polished. This experience offers a deeper understanding of the stone while directly supporting the local economy.
Buying Larimar is more than acquiring a gemstone—it is a way of supporting Dominican craftsmanship. By purchasing directly from artisans, you help sustain traditional skills and keep the local economy thriving.
For those staying in the Bayahibe area, one must-visit address is Orparima. This boutique is run by French designers who create unique, handcrafted Larimar jewelry of exceptional quality. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, blending local gemstone authenticity with refined artistic design.
Whether you join a Tropical Evasion circuit in Barahona or discover Orparima’s unique creations in Bayahibe, you are actively contributing to sustainable tourism and fair trade.
How to Recognize Real Larimar
Because of its rarity, Larimar is often imitated. Here are key tips to ensure you’re buying a genuine stone:
1. Color
Authentic Larimar displays a range of blues, from soft sky-blue to deep turquoise, often mixed with white marbling that looks like sea waves. The most prized stones show intense, vibrant blue tones.
2. Natural Patterns
No two Larimar stones are alike. Real stones have natural streaks, swirls, and inclusions. A stone that looks too perfect or uniform may be synthetic.
3. Transparency and Shine
High-quality Larimar has a subtle translucency and a glossy finish. Low-quality or fake stones often appear dull, chalky, or opaque.
4. Weight and Touch
As a mineral, Larimar feels cool and heavier than imitations made of glass, resin, or plastic.
5. Price
Larimar is rare and valuable. If the price seems suspiciously cheap, the stone is likely low quality—or fake.
Not all Larimar is created equal. Experts classify the stone into three main categories:
High quality: Deep, vivid blue with strong contrast and sometimes slight translucency. Highly valued in fine jewelry.
Medium quality: Softer blue with less contrast and more muted patterns.
Low quality: Pale blue, greenish, or chalky appearance, often opaque.
The Symbolism of Larimar
Beyond its beauty, Larimar is often considered a stone of peace, communication, and harmony. Many believe it helps balance emotions, encourage calmness, and connect with nature’s energy. This spiritual symbolism adds to its appeal, making it more than just a decorative stone.
A Treasure of the Dominican Republic
Larimar embodies the spirit of the Dominican Republic: vibrant, rare, and full of life. Whether you are collecting fragments during an excursion with Tropical Evasion, shopping at Orparima in Bayahibe, or admiring a polished stone in a jewelry store, you are not only acquiring a gemstone—you are taking home a piece of the Caribbean’s natural and cultural heritage.
Who are we?
Tropical Evasion is a local agency specialized in Tailor-made private tours across the Dominican Republic.
We offer authenticity, comfort, and safety, with tailor-made itineraries and personalized support.
📞 WHATSAPP CONTACT:
+1 (829) 424-1391
Embark on a Custom Adventure !
Experience unforgettable excursions!
Explore the Dominican Republic with Tropical Évasion
Whether you’re passionate about nature, cultural discoveries, or sea adventures, the Dominican Republic is full of treasures waiting to be explored. From the paradise beaches of Saona to the breathtaking peaks of Montaña Redonda, every excursion is an invitation to escape.
With Tropical Évasion, enjoy an exclusive and immersive experience in small groups, aboard luxury boats or off-road vehicles, for unforgettable moments far from traditional tourist routes.
Book your excursion now and let yourself be amazed by the authenticity of the Dominican Republic!
Follow us on social media…
La solution à mes problèmes…
Peut être que la République Dominicaine n’est pas la réponse à tout…
Mais entre les couchers de soleil, la mer turquoise et la tranquillité, je préfère quand même vérifier ! 🇩🇴🌊☀️
Parce qu’au fond, on a tous droit à une évasion, même juste le temps d’un instant.
Need a getaway?
Maybe the Dominican Republic is not the answer to everything…
But between the sunsets, the turquoise sea and the tranquility, I still prefer to check!🇩🇴🌊☀️
Because basically, we all have the right to escape, even just for a moment.
#dominicanrepublic #tropical #caribbeandream #explore #voyage
Saurez-vous trouver la sortie ? 👀🔍
On vous présente notre nouvelle excursion au départ de La Romana ou Bayahíbe, disponible tous les mardis en petit groupe de maximum 10 personnes pour une expérience vraiment privilégiée.
En demi-journée, explorez les Cuevas Maravillas, un site naturel impressionnant, puis amusez-vous dans un labyrinthe mystérieux qui plaira autant aux adultes qu’aux enfants.
👉 Parfait en famille ou pour ceux qui veulent une activité captivante sans y passer toute la journée !
Prêts à relever le défi et trouver la sortie ?
Will YOU find the way out? 👀🔍
Here’s our brand-new excursion from La Romana or Bayahíbe, available every Tuesday in a small group of up to 10 people for a more exclusive experience.
This half-day adventure takes you through the stunning Cuevas Maravillas and into a fun, mysterious labyrinth—perfect for families or anyone looking for an exciting activity without spending the whole day out.
Are you ready to take on the challenge and find the exit? ✨
#republiquedominicaine #voyagerautrement #excursion #bayahibe #maze #fun #halfdaytours #laromana
Vous aviez promis de découvrir de nouveaux horizons… Mais la République dominicaine a conquis votre cœur 🙈🇩🇴
Entre jungle, mer et sérénité, la République dominicaine vous rappellera toujours!
Laissez-nous créer votre prochaine évasion dominicaine, unique et sur mesure.
#républiquedominicaine #saona #vacances #dr #caraïbes
You promised to discover new horizons… But the Dominican Republic has won your heart 🙈🇩🇴
Between jungle, sea and serenity, the Dominican Republic will always remind you!
Let us create your next Dominican getaway, unique and tailor-made.
#Dominican republic #saona #holidays #dr #caribbean
Personne ne t’emmène ici…
Et c’est bien pour ça que c’est magique ✨
Une expérience unique depuis Punta Cana & Bayahibe 🌿
Petite équipe, max 14 personnes, pour une journée hors du commun.
☀️ Cano Hondo : petit-déj, cascades, baignade, déjeuner local.
🚤 Puis cap sur Los Haitises : grottes, nature brute & plage sauvage.
📅 Chaque mercredi — guide 🇫🇷 🇬🇧 🇪🇸
🕕 Pick-up dès 6h30 / retour vers 19h
👉 Le genre d’endroit que les autres n’osent pas montrer.
Réserve ici : https://tropicalevasion.com/cascade-cano-hondo-et-parc-national-los-haitises/
An exclusive experience from Punta Cana & Bayahibe 🌿
Small group — max 14 people — for a day off the beaten path.
☀️ Cano Hondo: local breakfast, waterfalls, swim & Dominican lunch.
🚤 Then off to Los Haitises: caves, wild beach & pure nature.
📅 Every Wednesday — guides in 🇫🇷 🇬🇧 🇪🇸
🕕 Pick-up from 6:30 AM / back around 7 PM.
👉 The kind of place no one else will show you.
Book now: https://tropicalevasion.com/en/cano-hondo-waterfall-haitises-national-park/
#voyage #republiquedominicaine #caraibes #vacances #aventure #nature #evasion #decouverte #puntacana #bayahibe #loshaitises #naturelovers #bucketlist #secretspot #hiddenparadise #exclusiveexperience #smallgrouptravel #offthebeatenpath