Mining & Grading of Larimar

The Journey of a Rare Gemstone from Mountain to Masterpiece

Every piece of Larimar jewelry begins deep within the remote mountains of the Dominican Republic, where the earth guards its rare blue treasure with intensity and awe. The path from mine to masterpiece is one of labor, patience, and artistry—reflecting the rarity and beauty of the gemstone itself.

The Mining Process: A Labor of Love

Found in only 1/2 square mile of the entire word, the mining of Larimar is both physically demanding and incredibly delicate. The deposits lie high in the mountains of Barahona, in areas that are difficult to access and vulnerable to nature’s forces—particularly during the hurricane season, which can shut down mining operations for nearly five months each year.

Unlike other gemstones, Larimar must be mined entirely by hand. The stone is sensitive to vibration; the use of heavy machinery or dynamite could destroy its intricate patterns and precious color. Instead, skilled miners follow narrow veins of Larimar deep into the rock—sometimes over hundreds of feet below the surface—armed only with hand tools and expertise passed down through generations.

Seasonal rains often flood the mines, turning soil to mud and triggering dangerous landslides. These challenges make Larimar not only one of the most rare gemstones in the world, but one of the most difficult to extract—adding to its mystique and exclusivity.

From Rough Stone to Refined Beauty

Once unearthed, the raw Larimar stone undergoes a careful cutting and sorting process. Remarkably, less than 10% of what is mined is considered suitable for jewelry. Of that, only a small fraction meets our standards.

At LARIMAR.COM, we go even further—hand-selecting only the top 1-2% of stones that meet our high standards of beauty, vibrancy, and character. These stones are the best of the best, chosen not only for their depth of color, but for their luminosity, natural patterning, and ability to inspire.

How Larimar Is Graded

While there is no formal gemological grading system for Larimar, expert collectors and artisans rely on a blend of factors to evaluate each stone’s quality:

1. Color – Deep, rich volcanic blues are the most sought-after.

2. Patterning – Intricate, ocean-like swirls and waves increase visual appeal.

3. Luster – A glossy, polished surface is a sign of high craftsmanship.

4. Clarity – Top-grade stones are free of pits, cracks, and impurities.

5. Translucence – Some stones glow beautifully when held up to light.

6. Chatoyance – A rare, silky shimmer that dances across the surface, similar to a cat’s eye.

No single trait defines a stone’s grade—it's the harmony of these qualities that determines its elegance and rarity. A stone may have softer color but mesmerizing movement and translucency, making it equally worthy of admiration.

A Word on “AAA Larimar” and Fakes

Not all stones labeled "AAA Larimar" are created equal. Online, the term is often used too freely—sometimes applied to stones with minimal color, weak patterning, or visible flaws. At LARIMAR.COM we uphold true AAA standards, curating only the finest stones that meet our strict visual and structural criteria.

With Larimar’s growing popularity, counterfeit stones have also entered the market. These imitations may somewhat resemble Larimar but lack its depth, feel, and natural beauty. We encourage you to source your Larimar from trusted experts and certified artisans—where the integrity of the stone is honored and preserved.

A Stone Worth the Effort

From hand-dug mountain veins to hand-finished settings, Larimar's journey is unlike any other gemstone. Its rarity, difficulty of mining, and unmatched beauty make each piece a testament to nature’s artistry and human dedication.

When you wear Larimar, you’re wearing a story—crafted by the Earth, chosen by hand, and destined for you.