What would a vacation be without souvenirs, those charming keepsakes that stir dormant memories of vacations long since passed? Like that Ireland shot glass so saliently perched on your mantle: how it reminds you, each time you pass by, of that Temple Bar foray with your coterie, when you began the jovial evening in Dublins most infamous bar and then awoke the following morning on a bus in Swords, dazed and wallet-less, clutching an iron-wrought shot glass? Or that intricately carved stein you purchased in Munchens famed Hofbrauhaus, when you drank and sang Oans, Zwoa, gsuffa! with a 92-year old beer hall veteran who had imbibed a lager and schnapps every day for the past 58 years? Besides these telling mementos (and a bevy of incriminating photos), how else would one relive such precious moments, especially as our minds begin to sink beneath the tonnage of old age?

Purchasing souvenirs for oneself (whether intentional or inadvertent) is one thing; purchasing items for someone else is another matter altogether. Its much harder to accommodate the discerning tastes of others, who may find that Ireland shot glass rather distasteful, or that Munchen beer stein inconducive to, say, their alcohol rehabilitation program. No matter how thoughtful the memento, no friend, significant other, or family member desires something ordinary or kitsch; and though your girlfriend may welcome that gyrating hula dancer or orange Jamaica T-shirt with a tepid smile, more likely than not shes astounded by your lack of taste and judgment, and would have preferred you return empty-handed.
Luckily for you, a trip to the Dominican Republic will generate no puzzled countenances or decorous gratitude, as the country brims with exquisite souvenirs, including high quality cigars and rum (perfect for more hedonistic friends). For the more subdued recipient, however, the Dominican offers up an abundance of unique gemstones, which have become increasingly popular souvenirs among jewelry lovers and aficionados. The most notable two are Larimar and Amber, two native stones that are beautiful and affordable, and make for indelible memories.
Larimar—Found only in the Dominican Republic, Larimar is mined in southern regions of the country, and is valued for its nuanced turquoise blue, white, and less common green hues. First discovered in the Caribbean in the 1970s, Larimar has become a staple of the Dominican Republic, and is often set in sterling silver and used for charming necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings. Volcanic blue Larimar is by far the most highly regarded and expensive, as its striking deep blue color reflects the azure palette of the Caribbean sky and sea.
Amber—Another widely acclaimed stone in the Dominican Republic, Amber is a golden or honey-colored fossil resin sold throughout the country in specialty jewelry or gift shops. Inclusions are the most popular, as they boast vestiges of small plants or insects. Like Larimar, Amber is often set in sterling silver, and makes for stunning additions to any jewelry collection.

So next time you visit the Dominican Republic, and your darling coquettishly requests something special, think twice before investing in that tourist t-shirt or fluorescent pink beach sarong. Most likely your girlfriend isnt requesting a new wardrobe&msdash;especially one emblazoned with tacky tropical logos, slogans, and/or foreign country names. Instead, opt for a beautiful piece of Larimar or Amber jewelry, a souvenir that will award you warm embraces and kisses, rather than the cold-shoulder.