Turquoise and larimar are two beautiful blue gemstones that are often confused with each other. However, there are a number of key differences between the two stones.
Turquoise
Turquoise is a hydrated copper aluminum phosphate mineral that is formed in arid climates. It has a hardness of 5-6 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 2.6-2.8. Turquoise is typically opaque and has a waxy to vitreous luster. The color of turquoise can range from light blue to deep blue-green, with the most desirable color being a rich, even blue.
Turquoise has been used in jewelry and other decorative objects for centuries. It was particularly popular in ancient Egypt and Persia, and it is still widely used in jewelry today. Turquoise is also used in traditional Native American jewelry.
Larimar
Larimar is a rare blue variety of the silicate mineral pectolite. It is found only in the
Dominican Republic, and it was first discovered in the 1970s. Larimar has a hardness of 5-5.5 on the Mohs scale and a specific gravity of 2.7-2.8. Larimar is typically translucent to opaque and has a vitreous to pearly luster. The color of larimar can range from light blue to deep turquoise-blue, with the most desirable color being a rich, even blue.
Larimar is a relatively new gemstone, but it has quickly become one of the most popular blue gemstones available. It is used in a wide variety of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, pendants, and earrings. Larimar is also used in other decorative objects, such as carvings and sculptures.
Comparison of turquoise and larimar
Here is a table comparing turquoise and larimar:
Characteristic Turquoise Larimar
Chemical composition Hydrated copper aluminum phosphate Silicate mineral pectolite
Hardness 5-6 5-5.5
Specific gravity 2.6-2.8 2.7-2.8
Luster Waxy to vitreous Vitreous to pearly
Color Light blue to deep blue-green Light blue to deep turquoise-blue Transparency Opaque Translucent to opaque
Occurrence Found in arid climates around the world Found only in the Dominican Republic
Uses Jewelry, decorative objects, traditional Native American jewelry Jewelry, decorative objects, carvings, sculptures
Which stone is right for you?
Turquoise and larimar are both beautiful blue gemstones, but they have different characteristics and appearances. Turquoise is a more traditional gemstone, while larimar is a newer gemstone that is gaining popularity.
When choosing between turquoise and larimar, it is important to consider your personal preferences. If you are looking for a gemstone with a rich, even blue color, then either turquoise or larimar would be a good choice. However, if you are looking for a gemstone with a unique appearance, then larimar may be a better choice.
It is also important to consider your budget. Turquoise is a more affordable gemstone than larimar. However, the price of both gemstones can vary depending on the quality and size of the stone.
Ultimately, the best way to choose between turquoise and larimar is to see both stones in person and choose the one that you like best.
Lab created diamonds and blue gemstones
Lab created diamonds are a sustainable and ethical alternative to natural diamonds. They are also more affordable than natural diamonds. Lab created diamonds can be used in jewelry with turquoise or larimar to create a unique and stylish look.
For example, a lab created diamond engagement ring with a turquoise or larimar center stone would be both beautiful and unique. Lab created diamonds can also be used to create accent stones in jewelry with turquoise or larimar.
If you are looking for a sustainable and ethical way to enjoy the beauty of blue gemstones, then lab created diamonds are a great option.