Amethyst do Sul y LP Minerais do Brasil: una alianza que fortalece el turismo minero.

The recent history of the city of Ametista do Sul is marked by the development of mining for the extraction of precious and semi-precious stones, especially amethyst, which today gives the city its name—once known as Vila São Gabriel. The exponential growth of the municipality, located in Rio Grande do Sul, began in the early 20th century with the discovery of large amethyst deposits. This transformed the local economy, which became shaped by the extraction and export of amethyst to various parts of the world.

LP Minerais do Brasil plays a key role in the city’s progress, being one of the leading companies involved in the extraction of amethyst, citrine, and other semi-precious stones found in the region. Our daily work significantly contributes to the extraction and refinement of these minerals, promoting and reinforcing Ametista do Sul’s prominent position in both national and international gemstone markets. Our production not only supplies the Brazilian market but also serves international demand, elevating the city that welcomed us and allowed LP Minerais to become a global reference in the semi-precious stone sector.

A model of tourism and mining

In addition to its global recognition for the abundance of amethyst and other minerals, Ametista do Sul successfully combined mining with tourism, attracting visitors from all over the world. LP Minerais do Brasil proudly contributes to this transformation, helping turn the city into a tourist hub deeply connected to amethysts, geodes, and other crystals native to the area.

Today, tourists can:

• Visit active and deactivated mines
• Learn the history of local mineral exploration
• Purchase exclusive crystals and jewelry produced in our factory, available to the public at our headquarters in São João neighborhood

Sustainable mining and economic development

Our presence supports the city’s tourism economy through responsible and sustainable extraction practices. By promoting our products in global markets, we help solidify international recognition of Ametista do Sul as a premier destination for mineral tourism—a vital source of income for the city.

Our work:

• Generates both direct and indirect employment
• Encourages local lapidary art, crafts, and jewelry commerce
• Strengthens the region’s economy by turning Ametista do Sul into a major center for mineral and jewelry production in Brazil

Exportation and international reputation

Another highlight in our relationship with Ametista do Sul lies in our strong export capacity. By shipping large volumes of gemstones to the international market, LP Minerais do Brasil helps position the city as a trusted name in the semi-precious stone industry.

Our commitment to quality, authenticity, and environmental responsibility boosts the city’s reputation abroad—attracting more tourists, investors, and buyers, and contributing to Ametista do Sul’s continued growth on the global stage.

Mining tourism in Ametista do Sul

Visitors arriving in Ametista do Sul are greeted with the warmth and hospitality typical of the local community. They can enjoy the «precious stones tourist route,» which includes:

• Mine visits
• Shops and galleries with minerals
• A church decorated with amethyst
• The esoteric pyramid
• Geological exhibitions and geoparks

These unforgettable experiences leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Amethyst mine tours

Exploring Ametista do Sul’s underground galleries is an adventurous and educational activity. Tourists can witness where the stones are found and understand how geodes form and how extraction takes place.

Highlights include:

• Guided tours through mines
• Viewing giant geodes and crystal formations
• Experiencing a unique geological encounter that connects visitors to Earth’s ancient history

Many of these mines are owned or operated in partnership with LP Minerais do Brasil.

Precious stone shops and galleries

Tourists can visit numerous stores and warehouses that sell:

• Whole geodes
• Cut and polished stones
• Jewelry and artisanal products

Local artisans often explain how they transform raw minerals into artistic, one-of-a-kind pieces.

At LP Minerais headquarters, connected directly to our factory, visitors can:

• Purchase exclusive decorative pieces
• See the polishing and cutting process
• Learn about the role of gemstones in the global market

Special places to visit in Ametista do Sul

The Ametista do Sul Gemstone Museum is a must-see. Its collection provides an in-depth look at the region’s mineral wealth and includes educational exhibits on:

• Gem properties
• Geological formation
• The impact of mining on the local economy

Much of the museum’s collection comes from mines operated by local companies, including LP Minerais do Brasil.

The city’s main church, the São Gabriel Sanctuary, features walls and altars adorned with amethysts—a stunning architectural expression of local culture that honors the importance of gems and mining.

Another iconic site is the esoteric pyramid, located in the city center. Built in 2004, the pyramid blends mineral richness and spirituality, offering visitors a space for connection, introspection, and inner peace. It was designed to be a catalyst for positive energy that elevates consciousness and purifies the human soul.

By Juraci Alcântara