Brazil uses forensic science to combat illegal Amazon gold mining

Brazil is employing forensic science and chemical analysis to combat illegal gold mining in the Amazon. By studying the “digital fingerprint” of gold—the specific chemical particles and characteristics related to its formation site—investigators aim to determine the exact origin of the mineral.

Researchers from the National Institute of Criminalistics in Brasilia, working alongside the Brazilian Federal Police, use techniques such as electron microscopy and spectrometry to analyze samples. This data is fed into the National Gold Profile Database, which allows authorities to match gold samples with specific mining sites.

The primary goal is to disrupt the commercialization of illegal gold. Because it is difficult to verify the legality of gold once it enters the market, this “gold laboratory” approach helps prevent illegally extracted minerals from being presented as legitimate through fraudulent documentation. This initiative is critical for the Amazon, where over 90% of Brazil's mining is concentrated and significant illegal operations occur within protected areas.