Larimar is only found in the Dominican Republic, has seen its value rise steadily over the past few decades. This beautiful semi-precious gemstone was unknown to the world until 1974 when it was discovered by Miguel Méndez and a Peace Corps volunteer named Norman Rilling on a beach at the foot of the Bahoruco Mountain Range.
Once larimar began being marketed internationally in the 1980s under the trade name "Atlantis Stone," demand and prices started to climb. From a curiosity sold by the handful on Dominican roadsides in the 70s, larimar quickly became a coveted collector's item.
Quality and Color Impact Value
Like most gems, the value of raw larimar is largely determined by the quality of color. The most valuable and expensive larimar displays an intense blue with very little white streaking. This is sometimes referred to as "Volcanic Blue" larimar. Medium-grade larimar shows more white patterns amidst the blue, while lower quality tends to appear pale blue and lackluster.
The grade of color combined with the size of the raw stone impacts price. For example, an AA grade volcanic blue larimar nugget weighing 100 carats could sell for $1000 or more. A lower grade larimar of the same size might only sell for $100. Most raw larimar on the market ranges from small pebbles of a few carats to nuggets of 500 carats or less. Stones over 500 carats are exceptionally rare.
Larimar Jewelry Prices
Of course, most larimar is cut and polished into finished jewelry. Simple larimar bead necklaces made with small round beads can sell for $50 or less. More intricate beaded designs using higher grade larimar can range from $100 to 300.
Larimar rings, earrings, and bracelets with silver settings are also very popular. Simple larimar earrings can start around $70, while a pair of substantial sterling silver larimar earrings with large stones might sell for $250 or more. Cocktail rings featuring large raw larimar cabochons of 20 carats or more set in 925 silver can easily fetch over $500 depending on the quality.
Custom larimar jewelry featuring large focal stones of high grade larimar and unique designs by skilled artisans will sell for thousands. For example, a one-of-a-kind larimar pendant made with 50 carats of top-grade stones and set in 14kt gold could sell for $2500-$5000. A stunning larimar bracelet with over 100 carats of stones could command $10,000 or more from fine jewelers.
So, common low-grade larimar jewelry can sell for less than $100. But unique pieces made with large, high-quality stones and precious metals can be valued over $10,000 in today's market. The blue pectolite of the Caribbean continues to enchant collectors and drive prices higher as demand outstrips the limited supply coming from the Dominican Republic.
