$45Median
9Sold (12 mo)
$30Last sale
Pectolite specimens for sale
4 for sale · $105–$1,250 USD
22 in the gallery
Pectolite is a calcium sodium inosilicate mineral with the formula NaCa₂Si₃O₈(OH). It forms as needle-like to fibrous aggregates and can display a silky to vitreous luster in well-formed specimens. The blue variety larimar is famous for its copper-induced coloration, found almost exclusively in the Barahona region of the Dominican Republic, where intense blue tones can contrast with white veining.
- Formula
- NaCa2Si3O8(OH)
- Rarity
- Uncommon
- Stability
- Moderately Stable
- Collector interest
- Niche Interest
- Classification notes
- Pectolite is a calcium sodium inosilicate mineral with the formula NaCa₂Si₃O₈(OH). Its most famous variety is larimar, a rare blue form found almost exclusively in the Dominican Republic. Stability Physical Stability: Pectolite is relatively brittle and has perfect cleavage, meaning it breaks easily. It scores about 4.5–5 on the Mohs scale, so it's not ideal for wear in jewelry unless protected. Chemical Stability: It is not highly reactive, but like many silicates, can be mildly affected by acids and prolonged water exposure. Larimar, for instance, may show surface dulling or etching if exposed to chemicals or harsh conditions. Rarity As a species: Pectolite itself is not rare and occurs in many localities worldwide, including the U.S., Canada, Italy, and Russia. As a crystal specimen: Well-formed, translucent to transparent crystals are uncommon and can be highly sought after by collectors. Most pectolite is fibrous or massive. Larimar (blue variety): Very rare, found almost exclusively in a single locality in the Barahona province of the Dominican Republic. The intense blue coloration is due to copper substitution and is highly prized.
Buy Pectolite specimens
View all 4Where Pectolite is found
Top localities
- Jeffrey Mine5 specimens
- Millington Quarry2 specimens
- Mont Saint-Hilaire2 specimens
- Paterson2 specimens
- Prospect Park Quarry2 specimens
- Barahona Province1 specimen
- Eastern Region1 specimen
- Prospect Park1 specimen
- Scotland1 specimen
- Upper New Street Quarry1 specimen
About Pectolite
Collectors seek well-formed, translucent to transparent crystals and striking blue larimar pieces for display and combination specimens. Outside of larimar, pectolite occurs in a variety of localities worldwide, including the United States, Canada, Iceland, Italy, and Russia, often as fibrous aggregates in basaltic or hydrothermal settings. While the mineral itself is moderately stable and relatively brittle with cleavage, careful handling and display in protective cases highlight its delicate beauty. The rarity of pristine crystal forms and the allure of larimar’s color contribute to its niche appeal among collectors who value unique coloration and locality diversity.
