Round cabochon of Dominican larimar, 10 mm in diameter. Classic button format for small rings, earrings, and minimalist pieces in 925 silver. Turquoise blue with white pectolite veins. From the Sierra de Bahoruco, the only place in the world where larimar exists.
Piece Details
| Mineral |
Larimar (blue pectolite: NaCa2Si3O8(OH) with traces of Cu) |
| Dimensions |
10 mm diameter (±0.5 mm); height approx. 4–6 mm |
| Shape and Back |
Round (button); flat back |
| Finish |
Mirror polish |
| Hardness |
4.5–5 Mohs — we recommend bezel setting in 925 silver |
| Origin |
Dominican Republic (Sierra de Bahoruco, Barahona province) |
| Treatment |
Untreated |
| Piece Type |
Commercial stock; unique vein pattern in each piece |
This specific piece
The 10 mm round format is the quintessential button cabochon: symmetrical in any orientation, compatible with catalog ring and earring settings, and small enough for everyday jewelry but large enough for the larimar pattern to be visible without a magnifying glass.
The pattern of white veins on turquoise blue within the 10 mm is unique in each piece: some show an intense blue core with radial white veins; others, a more uniform distribution of blue and white.
Larimar: the Caribbean's blue pectolite
Larimar is the only documented blue variety of pectolite (NaCa2Si3O8(OH)), a silicate that elsewhere in the world appears white or gray with no gemological value.
What setting it works for
-
Round bezel setting in 925 silver — A 10 mm bezel is a standard size widely available in jewelry components. With Mohs 4.5–5, the bezel is the safest setting to protect the cabochon's edge from side impacts. Polished or hammered texture 925 silver complements the blue.
-
Silver button earrings — The 10 mm round format is the classic size for button earrings. Prefabricated catalog settings fit directly. 925 silver earrings with larimar offer a discreet yet distinguished visual presence.
-
Minimalist ring — A 10 mm round cabochon in a narrow bezel setting is the basis of a minimalist stone ring. The symmetry of the round shape facilitates centering in classic settings with a straight band.
Larimar in crystal tradition
The rarity of larimar — a single vein in the world, on a single island — has given it a special mythology. It is called "Caribbean stone" or "Atlantis stone."
The symbolic associations attributed to minerals belong to cultural and historical traditions. They are shared for educational purposes, not as medical advice.
How to recognize authentic larimar
In a 10 mm round, genuine larimar shows complete opacity, homogeneous waxy luster, and naturally patterned white veins. The microcrystalline texture under magnification is fine and free of bubbles.
Frequently asked questions
Is the 10 mm round format compatible with catalog settings?
Yes. The 10 mm diameter is a standard size widely available in silver, copper, and bronze settings for rings, earrings, and pendants. Check the setting's tolerance (usually ±0.5 mm) before mounting.
Is this larimar treated?
No detectable treatment. Statement based on lapidary observation; the piece does not include formal gemological certification.
Are all the rounds the same shade of blue?
No. The shade varies between pieces in the same lot, from intense blue to lighter blue. This variability is inherent to natural larimar.
Is it suitable for everyday earrings?
With Mohs 4.5–5 and in an earring (without the rubbing of a ring), larimar is viable for more frequent use. Avoid contact with hard objects and do not clean with abrasive products. With normal care, it maintains its luster for years.
What is the dimensional tolerance?
±0.5 mm in diameter, as it is a natural material. The diameter may vary slightly between pieces in the same lot.
How is it cared for?
Avoid ultrasonics, steam, and prolonged sun exposure. Clean with a soft cloth and warm water. See the complete guide at jewelry care.
See also: cabochon collection | earrings | rings.
