The Mineralogical Society of Southern California

This presentation focuses on the famed mineral-rich pegmatite districts of Minas Gerais, Brazil, following a recent expedition in June 2025 by Paolo Sanchez. Paolo has undergone scientific field work over two and a half weeks exploring gem- and lithium-rich pegmatites of grand proportions–up to over 60 meters thick, with crystals meters long–as part of thesis research to understand how the melting ancient ocean floor around 580 – 500 million years ago could contribute to producing lithium-rich pegmatites. This talk will touch upon the science behind pegmatites and their formation, historic gem mining in the area, and the international rush for lithium and industrial minerals happening today, with a focus on two mining districts of Linopolis and Araçuai. 

 

Paolo Sanchez is a PhD student in geochemistry at Caltech. Starting as a rockhound since kindergarten, Paolo’s interest in science has developed into a lifelong passion for minerals and other geological materials. Graduating UC Berkeley with degrees in geology and geophysics, his PhD is advised by the late Dr. George Rossman and Dr. Claire Bucholz. His current research focuses on the formation and mineralogy of lithium-rich pegmatites, mineral synthesis and spectroscopy, and the chemical modelling of tektite glass. He is a member of several AFMS clubs, including the MSSC, and has won numerous grants and awards for his research in the geosciences.