How to Care for Your Larimar Jewelry (Silver & Gold Vermeil)
Keep your Larimar looking as radiant as the day you bought it—simple, effective care guidance from artisans in the Dominican Republic.
Why Larimar Care Matters
Larimar is a rare Caribbean gemstone known for its calming blue hues and natural patterns—each piece completely unique. To help you preserve its beauty for years, this guide offers clear, expert-backed care advice for both silver and gold vermeil Larimar jewelry. From daily habits to long-term maintenance, here’s everything you need to confidently protect your favorite pieces.
Everyday Care Essentials
These simple practices help protect both the Larimar stone and the metal:
- Put jewelry on last — after lotions, perfumes, and hairspray.
- Avoid exposing Larimar to cleaning products, chemicals, and abrasive substances.
- Remove jewelry before entering pools or hot tubs — chlorine can dull the stone and discolor 925 silver.
- Store Larimar away from prolonged, direct sun exposure to preserve its natural depth of color.
- Do not toss Larimar pieces into a bag or drawer where they can rub against harder objects.
Substances and Environments to Avoid
Household & Chemical Exposure
Larimar and precious metals can be affected by:
- Cleaning products
- Bleach
- Strong detergents
- Acetone, alcohol, or solvents
Remove your jewelry before any household or industrial tasks.
Chlorine & Pools
Chlorine may damage the stone’s surface and can discolor 925 silver.
Always remove Larimar pieces before entering:
- Swimming pools
- Hot tubs
- Jacuzzis
Physical Impact
Although Larimar does not scratch easily, it can chip under force.
Avoid:
- Hitting it against hard surfaces
- Storing it loose in bags or pockets
- Wearing during high-impact activities
Prolonged Sun Exposure
Extended UV exposure can gradually lighten the color of natural Larimar.
For protection:
- Avoid leaving jewelry in direct sunlight
- Never store it in a hot car or near windows
- Keep away from temperatures above 37°C (98°F)
Cleaning Your Larimar Jewelry
Daily or Post-Wear Wipe-Down
After wearing your Larimar, gently wipe it with a dry, soft, non-abrasive cloth to remove oils and residue.
Weekly Deep Clean
A light wash keeps both the stone and metal setting bright.
Recommended method:
- Use clean, lukewarm water
- Add a few drops of mild, non-moisturizing soap
- If needed, use a soft (never abrasive) brush to clean metal details
- Rinse thoroughly
- Dry completely with a soft cloth
Important Natural Behavior of Larimar
Because Larimar is slightly porous, it may absorb a bit of moisture during cleaning.
This can make the stone appear temporarily:
- Richer
- Deeper
- Slightly bluer
It will return to its natural tone once fully dry.
Avoid These Cleaning Methods
To protect the integrity of the stone:
- Do NOT use ultrasonic cleaners — vibrations can stress internal structures.
- No steam cleaning — sudden temperature shifts can cause thermal shock.
- No abrasive polishes, pastes, or cloths.
- Avoid chemical jewelry dips, especially those meant for silver or gold.
For a deeper look at natural color variations, inclusions, and stone behavior, explore our What Is Larimar?
Caring for Gold Vermeil Larimar Jewelry
Gold Vermeil is delicate and requires gentle care:
- Avoid friction with rough fabrics or surfaces.
- Do not use silver dips, harsh polishes, or abrasive cloths.
- Clean only with mild soap and water.
- Pat dry — do not rub aggressively.
Learn more about Gold Vermeil Larimar Jewelry.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Sleeping with Larimar jewelry on
- Leaving pieces in direct sun for long periods
- Wearing jewelry in saunas or jacuzzis
- Using cleaners intended for metal but not gemstones
- Storing jewelry in open trays where pieces touch or rub
Looking for your own piece? Explore our collection of Larimar pendants, Larimar rings, and Larimar earrings.
Every Larimar piece has a personality of its own — with simple, intentional care, its natural beauty will stay vibrant for years to come.
Frequently Asked Questions About Larimar Jewelry Care
Can Larimar go in water?
Yes—brief, gentle washing is completely safe. Larimar is slightly porous, so it may appear darker when wet but returns to its natural color once dry.
Does Larimar fade in the sun?
Prolonged UV exposure can lighten the stone over time. Short periods are fine, but avoid leaving your jewelry in direct sunlight or a hot car.
Can I shower with Larimar jewelry?
It’s best not to. Soap, shampoo, and heat can affect both the stone and the silver or gold vermeil setting.
Why does my Larimar look darker or richer after washing?
This is normal. Larimar absorbs a small amount of moisture during cleaning, making it appear deeper in color temporarily. It goes back to normal once fully dry.
Can I use an ultrasonic cleaner?
No. The vibrations can weaken Larimar’s internal structure. Stick to mild soap, lukewarm water, and a soft non-abrasive brush.
Is Larimar a delicate stone?
Larimar does not scratch easily, but it can chip if struck with force. Avoid hard surfaces and high-impact activities.
How should I store my Larimar pieces?
Keep them in a soft pouch or separate jewelry box compartment to avoid rubbing against other metals or gemstones.
If you’d like to explore Larimar more broadly—from origins to how to choose your piece—The Larimar Guide brings everything together in one place.
