Amethyst Mines of Artigas
Working amethyst and agate mines in the far north, cut into basalt geodes and open to visitors.
Updated 14 October 2026
The basalt of northern Uruguay is full of gas cavities that filled with silica over millions of years, producing geodes lined with amethyst and agate, and the country around Artigas has been mined for them for decades; Uruguayan amethyst has a reputation for depth of colour and the district supplies a substantial share of the world market. Several mines take visitors underground to see the geodes in place and the cutting workshops in town.
Highlights
- The geodes - basalt cavities lined with amethyst crystal, seen in place.
- The underground workings - the galleries cut to follow the seams.
- The cutting workshops - stone worked and polished in the town.
- The colour - the deep purple the district's amethyst is known for.
When to go
March to November is most comfortable; the far north is very hot in summer. Visits must be arranged with the mines in advance. Weekends may not operate.
Before you go
Visits need arranging ahead and are not available on demand. The workings are dusty and confined. Artigas is a long way from anywhere else in the country.
Nearby
Artigas town is central to the district, and the Brazilian border is north.
What to pack for Amethyst Mines of Artigas
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Head torch + spare batteries - Hands-free light is essential; caves are truly dark. Find on Amazon
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Grippy closed shoes - Cave floors are wet, muddy and slick with formations. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
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