The Capim Dourado: Brazil's golden treasure, from nature to jewelry
Capim dourado, literally golden grass in Portuguese, is a unique plant that fascinates with its natural beauty and its artisanal transformation into exceptional works of art.
Native to Brazil, this grass with naturally golden stems is now at the heart of craftsmanship deeply rooted in the history and life of local communities. Closely linked to the cultural identity of certain regions of the country, it also represents a remarkable example of coexistence between tradition, environmental protection, and sustainable economic development.
The Legend
In the 15th century, Atahualpa, the last Inca king, decided to hide the Inca treasure before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors. He asked that his treasure be transformed into gold dust and entrusted to the god of wind who, with a breath, carried it eastward and returned it to Pachamama, the Earth Mother. Thus, this unique plant was born in Brazil.
What is Capim Dourado?
Botanically known as Syngonanthus nitens, Capim Dourado is an herbaceous species belonging to the Eriocaulaceae family. This plant is distinguished by its white flower at the tip of its long golden stems that shine naturally in the light, giving the impression of holding gold in one's hands, without any metallurgical or chemical treatment.
It grows wild in the Cerrado biome, a vast area of tropical savanna that covers a large part of central Brazil. However, its highest concentration and emblematic presence are found in the Jalapão region, in the state of Tocantins, in the heart of the country, recognized worldwide as the birthplace of Capim Dourado and the anchor point of its artisanal tradition.
A plant intimately linked to local communities
According to historical research, it was the Xerente indigenous people who transmitted the first techniques for transforming this grass to the inhabitants of the region.The communities living near this territory then learned the art of weaving this plant in a traditional way.
A very specific harvest season
Capim dourado can only be harvested once a year, when the plant has reached full maturity and its stems take on their characteristic golden color. This period generally extends from September 20 to November 20, during which local communities are authorized to harvest.
The Brazilian State, aware of the fragility of this plant and its ecosystem, has implemented strict regulations:
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Time-limited harvest to avoid overexploitation.
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Prohibition of raw material (in natura) export: only products processed by artisans can leave the region.
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Traditional practices that respect the sustainability of the plant, including the return of seeds or unprocessed parts of the plant to the field to promote its natural renewal.
These measures ensure the balance between artisanal exploitation, environmental preservation, and sustainable development.
Jewelry making
Capim dourado craftsmanship is extremely diverse. It includes:
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Jewelry: bracelets, necklaces, earrings, etc.
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Fashion accessories: bags, hats, belts.
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Decorative items: baskets, frames, lamps, mandalas.
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Utility items: boxes, trays, etc.
Each piece is unique and carries with it the history, tradition, and creativity of its artisan. The jewelry offered on the site is mounted with brass clasps, 3-micron gold-plated, guaranteed free of toxic metals (cadmium, nickel, or lead), in accordance with European standards. They can also be braided with polyester thread with a metallic texture and galvanized steel wire to hold the whole together.
Cultural and Economic Importance
Capim Dourado is not only an aesthetic material: it is an essential economic pillar for the local communities of Jalapão.
Craftsmanship based on this plant provides a sustainable source of income, valuing local know-how and creating economic opportunities where few other resources are available.
Culturally, these artisanal traditions are a vector of community identity, rooted in ancient practices and now showcased in national and international markets.
Thanks to the rise of artisanal tourism and fair trade networks, capim dourado products have gained international recognition. They are now sold in several countries, while maintaining their authentic and artisanal character.
Caring for your jewelry
Find our Capim Dourado jewelry collection here.
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