Dominican Republic Hails The Larimar Stones - Cashmere, Wool and Silk directory

Larimar stones are found in the mines of the Dominican Republic. They were first discovered in the early 1900's by a pastor, but due to a lack of interest the discovery was delayed and almost forgotten until the mid seventies. A peace corp. Volunteer noticed a blue reflection coming off the sands on a beach and came ashore to investigate it.

Named after a combination of his beloved daughter and the sea he came up with Larimar, after Larissa and the Spanish word for Sea 'mar'. It was originally called 'blue stone' by the locals, and was thought to have originated from the sea itself. Later investigation then led the men up a river to find the only known location of Larimar in the world.

Larimar stones are made from blue pectolite that accumulated in gaps created by volcanic activity within the mountains of the region. The erosion of the sediment caused the deposits to move down towards the Bahoruco River where they were then carried out to sea. The travels along the river then aided the polishing and smoothing of the stones to give them their main appeal.

Also known as Lariamber the stones are believed to have spiritual healing powers and were often worn by high priests and priestesses of the Native Americans and Eastern Indians for the very same reasons. A near relative to the yellow amber made famous by 'Jurassic park' larimar is also known for transmuting negative energy into positive energy, as well as helping one calm the nerves.

The stone lore for Larimar is based on the archangel Uriel, who is responsible for dispelling resent and unforgiveness. The stones are then used as a symbol for loving couples that are looking to renew their wedding vows, showing their irrevocable love and commitment to one another.

Since the stones are only found in the one region, they are just as rare as they are beautiful. Once the stones are collected they are then shipped inland to be mounted into various jewelery items that sell in and around the Caribbean. The stones are set in all three types of gold, Platinum, and silver. The pricing often varies according to size of the stones, settings, and type of metal used, but the beauty of the pieces more than make up for the price.

Even though the best place to get hold of Larimar is in the Caribbean, obtaining it is fairly easy if you hop online. There are a number of stores online that specialize in this special stone alone. They are able to distribute in raw form, polished and cut or you can even purchase the jewelery items themselves.

Taking into consideration the meaning behind these stones, and the innate beauty that is born from within; you can only agree that they are worth while buying. The wide variety of uses and meanings for the avid stone lover, give you ample reason to purchase some of these stones. Well crafted jewelery will bring meaning and positivity to your life, and offer you beautiful pieces to wear with your favorite outfit, no matter what the occasion.