Personally I like all types of beads with mixed matrix and I have purchased strands of Larimar with the red iron matrix so I can see all of the material from which the "best" pieces are made. That said, the pure blue cuts of Larimar are awesome, and expensive. I am yearning for a pendant! These beads have some area of darkish shading, some with dark spots, and some very light/white beads. About 1/3 of the strand are really great. For the price, these are awesome!