Blue pectolite from the Dominican Republic, also known by the trade name Larimar, has recently entered the U.S. market. Large quantities of this attractive ornamental stone have been found in cavities and veins of altered basalt. Most of the gemological properties are consistent with those previously reported for pectolite; the cause of color in this material is believed to be related to the presence of small amounts of Cu2+. The color appears to be stable to light, but does react to irradiation and to the heat of a jeweler's torch. It is easily separated from similar-appearing materials.
