Cristalina

Cristalina is a municipality on the Goiás plateau, positioned where highways BR-040 and BR-050 intersect. The town sits on a highland plain between the Corumbá and São Marcos river basins.

The area began developing in the 18th century when gold seekers arrived, and in 1879 two French traders started exporting crystals to Paris. This early trade connection shaped the region's future as a mineral producer.

Stone cutters and jewelry makers work throughout the town, crafting pieces from local minerals found nearby. Their workshops are part of everyday life here, visible in the local economy and community.

The town is about 2 hours from Brasília via highway BR-040 and serves as an agricultural hub. Visitors can explore craft workshops where stones are cut and see the local farming of soybeans, corn, and beans.

The region holds deposits of amethysts, sapphires, emeralds, blue topazes, and tourmaline that attract mineral collectors and traders. These gemstone fields are less well-known internationally than the agricultural economy despite their long commercial history.

Location: Goiás

Inception: 1901

Elevation above the sea: 990 m

Shares border with: Ipameri, Cabeceira Grande, Unaí, Cidade Ocidental, Luziânia, Paracatu

Website: http://cristalina.go.gov.br

GPS coordinates: -16.76889,-47.61389

Latest update: December 17, 2025 08:01