Pectolite 'Larimar' Gemstone Information
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About Pectolite - History and IntroductionPectolite is a rather common mineral, but a very rare gemstone. It is one of the lesser-known gemstones and is classified primarily as a collector's stone. Pectolite was first described after an occurrence was found in 1828 at Monte Baldo in the Italian Alps. Its name comes from the Greek words 'pektos' and 'lithos', meaning 'compacted' and 'stone'. Most pectolite gemstones are opaque and gray to green in color, although especially fine quality materials can occur transparent to translucent. Gem-quality pectolite from New Jersey (USA) is highly sought after by collectors, along with the light-blue colored deposits found only in the Dominican Republic. Blue pectolite is more popularly marketed as 'Larimar', a trademarked name for a variety of pectolite colored by copper and manganese.
Pectolite is a hydrous sodium calcium silicate. It is rather soft with a hardness of only 4.5 to 5 on the Mohs scale. In most cases, pectolite is quite delicate and even soft to the touch. But when densely formed, it can be reasonably tough. Pectolite forms with distinct triclinic crystals, usually as long, densely grouped slender fibers. Pectolite crystals are like needles and can easily pierce the skin. Crystals are typically spheroidal, radiating from the center outwards. Pectolite has a density of 2.74 - 2.88 and a refractive index of 1.59 - 1.645; the color of its streak is white. Only blue pectolite can be identified as Larimar. Pectolite can be found in many locations around the world, including the Czech Republic, Canada, England, Germany, Italy and various regions of the USA (Arkansas, California, Michigan, New Jersey and New York). Today, most gemstone-quality deposits of pectolite are sourced from the Filipinas Mine in Los Checheses, located in the Dominican Republic, where it is usually found washed ashore as alluvial deposits carried down through the Bahoruco River.
Please refer to our Gemstone Glossary for details of gemology-related terms.
Pectolite occurs in association with a variety of other common gems and minerals. Some of the more well-known associations include prehnite, calcite and serpentine. Green pectolite is sometimes misleadingly traded as 'pectolite jade'. Blue pectolite found only in the Dominican Republic is traded as Larimar, a trademarked name for any gemmy pale blue, green-blue or sky to volcano-blue pectolite. Pectolite is a stone of wisdom. Different colors may bring different energies to the stone, but in general, pectolite can be used to bring a deep sense of relaxation and peace to its wearer. It can be helpful to relieve feelings of guilt and for healing on an emotional and spiritual level. Pectolite is best for balancing energies of the crown and the third-eye chakras. Physically, pectolite is thought to be good for relieving high blood pressure, and pains associated with the joints and bones. Blue pectolite is often referred to as the Atlantis stone'. This is because it is believed to carry the energy of water and hold the power of the legendary continent of Atlantis.
Pectolite is rather soft for most jewelry use. It is mostly cut for collectors and for display purposes. However, it is often used for jewelry in the Dominican Republic and elsewhere in the Caribbean. When wearing pectolite, its use should be limited to earrings, pendants and other designs which are 'well-protected'. If worn in rings, care should be taken to prevent scratches; bezel-style settings are best. Note: Buy colored gemstones by size and not by carat weight. Colored stones vary in size-to-weight ratio. Some stones are larger and others are smaller than diamonds by weight in comparison.
Avoid ultrasonic cleaners and heat steamers. Always remove any pectolite jewelry before engaging in any vigorous physical activities, such as sports, exercise or household chores. When storing pectolite gemstones, store them separately from other gems and jewelry to prevent scratches. It is best to wrap them in a soft cloth and place them in a fabric-lined jewelry box. |
Pectolite is rather soft and fragile compared to most jewelry gemstones. It also exhibits perfect cleavage along with a brittle tenacity and uneven fracture. Be sure to avoid any harsh chemicals and cleaners as pectolite can be corroded by mineral acids. Avoid prolonged exposure to strong heat or sunlight in order to prevent color loss. You can wipe down your stones using a soft cloth and warm soapy water. Be sure to rinse well to remove any excess soapy residue.- First Published: May-09-2014
- Last Updated: January-17-2019
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