Artigo:

The article describes design actions aimed at installing a field laboratory in a region that is at the same time among the richest in mineral resources and the poorest in social and economic development in the State of Minas Gerais. The so-called Itaporarte Laboratory was developed from 2006 onwards through different projects integrated by multidisciplinary teams, as an initiative of a study center located in a state university, which was supported since the beginning by public policies for regional technological development. The actions described here were presented in response to the community's demand for training, aimed at improving aspects of quality and sustainability at different levels of the gem and jewelry production chain. Its objective was to develop new products based on the material and immaterial wealth of the region, and the result was the creation of contemporary mineral handicrafts that were later awarded in design competitions.