Brazilian Gems - Overview
Introduction to Brazil's diverse gem production including Paraíba tourmaline, imperial topaz, aquamarine, and other varieties.
brazil minas-gerais gems
Introduction
Brazil is one of the world's most important gem sources, producing a remarkable
variety of species and colours. From the legendary Paraíba tourmaline to imperial
topaz found nowhere else, Brazilian gems occupy unique positions in the market.
Major gem-producing states include Minas Gerais, Bahia, Rio Grande do Norte,
and Paraíba.
Major Gem Types
Brazil's signature productions:
Paraíba Tourmaline
- Discovery: 1989
- Character: Neon blue-green copper-bearing
- Significance: Most valuable tourmaline
- Status: Original source nearly exhausted
Imperial Topaz
- Source: Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais only
- Exclusivity: No other commercial source worldwide
- Colour: Orange to pink-orange to red
- Value: Premium over other topaz
Aquamarine
- Source: Minas Gerais primary
- Quality: World-class; "Santa Maria" colour
- History: Major source since early 1900s
- Sizes: Famous for large crystals
Geographic Distribution
Gem-producing regions:
Minas Gerais
- Primary gem state
- Aquamarine, imperial topaz, tourmaline
- Emerald, alexandrite, morganite
- Major cutting industry
Bahia
- Emerald production
- Chrome tourmaline
- Various gem minerals
Paraíba & Rio Grande do Norte
- Original Paraíba tourmaline source
- Production now very limited
- Historic significance
Brazilian Gem Trade
Market Significance
Brazil's role in the gem world:
- Paraíba: Defined new category; commands highest premiums
- Imperial topaz: Geographic exclusivity
- Aquamarine: Major world supplier; quality benchmark
- Tourmaline: Full colour range; multiple varieties
- Quartz: Dominates world amethyst supply