RocksdayLarimar vs Pectolite
To tell Larimar from Pectolite: Larimar is the blue gem variety of this mineral.
A sky-blue variety of pectolite with white, water-like patterns, found only in the Dominican Republic.
Photo: Parent Géry, Public domain
A sodium-calcium silicate of tough white needles. The compact blue variety from the Dominican Republic is larimar.
Photo: Robert M. Lavinsky, CC BY-SA 3.0
Key differences
- Larimar is the blue gem variety of this mineral.
Side by side
| Property | Larimar | Pectolite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Mineral | Mineral |
| Mohs hardness | 4.5–5 | 4.5–5 |
| Luster | Silky to vitreous | Silky to vitreous |
| Streak | White | White |
| Colors | Blue, White | White, Gray, Blue |
| Crystal system | Triclinic | Triclinic |
| Specific gravity | 2.74–2.88 | 2.7–2.9 |
| Formula | NaCa₂Si₃O₈(OH) | NaCa₂Si₃O₈(OH) |
| Found in | Barahona Province, Dominican Republic | New Jersey; Dominican Republic |
Properties that are the same for both are grayed out.
How to identify larimar
- Sky to sea blue with white swirls, like light on water.
- Fibrous texture with a silky sheen.
- Fairly soft — a knife scratches it.
Crystal system: Triclinic
Full Larimar guide →How to identify pectolite
- Splintery white masses or radiating needles.
- Splinters easily — handle with care.
- Hardness about 5. Blue compact pieces are larimar.
Crystal system: Triclinic
Full Pectolite guide →More comparisons
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between larimar and pectolite?
Larimar is a mineral with a Mohs hardness of 4.5–5 and a silky to vitreous luster, usually blue or white. Pectolite is a mineral with a Mohs hardness of 4.5–5 and a silky to vitreous luster, usually white, gray or blue.
How can you tell larimar from pectolite?
Larimar is the blue gem variety of this mineral.
Could you tell them apart from a blurry close-up?
Play today's Rocksday