The Capim Dourado: Brazil's golden treasure, from nature to jewelry
Capim dourado, literally "golden grass" in Portuguese, is a plant unique in the world, captivating people with its natural beauty and its artisanal transformation into exceptional works of art. Native to Brazil, this grass with its naturally golden stems is now at the heart of a craft deeply rooted in the history and lives of local communities. Intimately linked to the cultural identity of certain regions of the country, it also represents a remarkable example of the coexistence of 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 wind god who, with a breath, carried it eastward and returned it to Pachamama, Mother Earth. Thus, in Brazil, this plant, unique in the world, was born.
What is Capim Dourado?
Botanically known as Syngonanthus nitens , Capim Dourado is a herbaceous species belonging to the Eriocaulaceae family. This plant is distinguished by its white flower at the end of its long, golden stems that naturally shine 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 tropical savannah that covers much of central Brazil. However, its highest concentration and most emblematic presence are found in the Jalapão region, in the state of Tocantins in the heart of the country, globally recognized as the birthplace of Capim Dourado and the anchor of its artisanal tradition.
A plant closely linked to local communities
According to historical research, it was the indigenous Xerente people who transmitted the first techniques for processing this herb to the inhabitants of the region.Communities living near this territory then learned the art of weaving this plant in a traditional way.
A very specific harvest season
The harvest of capim dourado can only take place once a year, when the plant has reached full maturity and its stems have taken on their characteristic golden color. This period generally extends from September 20th to November 20th, during which time local communities are authorized to harvest it.
The Brazilian state, aware of the fragility of this plant and its ecosystem, has put in place strict regulations:
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Harvesting is limited in time to avoid overexploitation.
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Export of raw material (in natura) is prohibited: only products processed by artisans may leave the region.
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Traditional practices that respect the sustainability of the plant, including returning seeds or unprocessed parts of the plant to the field to promote its natural renewal.
These measures guarantee a balance between artisanal production, environmental preservation and sustainable development.
Jewelry making
The crafts of Capim Dourado are extremely diverse. They include, among other things:
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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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Utilitarian objects: boxes, trays, etc.
Each piece is unique and embodies the history, tradition, and creativity of its artisan. The jewelry offered on this site is assembled with brass clasps, plated with 3 microns of gold, 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 everything together.
Cultural and economic importance
Capim Dourado is not merely an aesthetically pleasing material; it is a vital economic pillar for local communities in Jalapão. Crafts made from this plant provide a sustainable source of income, valuing local skills and creating economic opportunities where few other resources are available.
From a cultural perspective, these craft traditions are a vector of community identity, rooted in ancient practices and showcased today 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 retaining their authentic and handcrafted character.
Keeping your jewelry
Our collection
Find our collection of Capim Dourado jewelry via the link above.
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