Gemstones From Brazil

Not just tropical beaches, waterfalls, rainforests, the carnival, and a lifestyle full of fun, Brazil is to this date one of the world’s largest gemstones.

For almost 150 years in the 18th and 19th centuries, Brazil was the biggest source of diamonds.

While diamonds are still mined in the country, this mineral-rich nation continues to be flush with emeralds, topaz, amethyst, ametrine, citrine, tourmaline, and opal among many other natural gemstones which are found almost all across the country, though Minas Gerais, Mato Grosso, Goias, Rio Grande do Sul and Bahia are best known for gemstone production, including diamonds.

For the youth who wish to explore a career in gemology and the country, The Brazilian Institute of Gems and Precious Metals Ibgm.com.br should be on the list of those to be contacted for the courses they offer and also the practical guidance they would be in a position to offer relating to gemstones and Brazil.

For those wishing to set up trade in gemstones and jewelry and source from Brazil the best route
would be to establish contact with specialist wholesalers in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo.

Minas Gerais

This mineral-rich state is in the southeastern part of Brazil. The name means “General Mines”. Starting with the capital city of Belo Horizonte one may set out for the mines. At one time the state supplied more than fifty percent of the gold and diamond output from the country and to date retains rich enough deposits to be mined. From the cultural and tourism point of view, there is much to see apart from the rolling hills and the landscape. Monte Verde, situated high at 1,500 meters above sea level is in the Serra da Mantiqueira mountain range. This town and several others including Ouro Preto and Lavras Novas maintain their colonial look and feel. While you explore the mines, taking a break to visit the National Park of Caparao and the hiking trails is definitely worth it.

Mato Grosso

The young visitors to the mines would also do well to explore the region for the Xingu
Indigenous Park and the Araguaia River and the world’s largest wetlands in the southern part of the region which is a natural habitats for almost one thousand species of animals and aquatic birds.

Goias

In earlier times Europeans made expeditions into this deeper part of Brazil which was
especially known for gold. Today the region is most attractive for those interested in precious stones known as Golas Apatite. These are extremely attractive blue gemstones and are found in every imaginable hue of blue including the Golas Neon Apatite which is most in demand.
The savannah, towns going back to colonial times, the Chapada dos Veadeiros National Park, the
highlands, rivers, canyons, and waterfalls are also what Golas is known for.

Rio Grande do Sul

On the border with Argentina, this is Brazil’s southernmost state. Many of the gem
hunters head to this state for the uncut colored agate and amethyst, sometimes even finding bargains. Once done with bargain hunting for stones there’s quite a lot to do in this wealthy state which is known for its nightlife, historical tours, and tours into the natural beauty of the region.

Bahia

The state is particularly known for uncut emeralds, amethyst, and aquamarines.
Many a gem buyer of uncut stones sets aside a few days to explore this booming region for the nightlife, culture, cuisine, and festivities. Yes festivities, this is after all the place where the Africans began the Brazilian addiction to Samba.

There are many professions that combine work and adventure and working with gemstones is perhaps right there at the top.

Photo: Bjoern Wylezich/Shutterstock

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