Pedras do patrimônio da IUGS: histórico e requisitos

Abstract

This article deals with the history and current framework of the International Union of Geological Sciences (IUGS)’ Heri-tage Stone designation, an international recognition of natural stones that have provided material for architectural struc-tures and monuments representative of integral aspects of human culture. The IUGS Heritage Stone title aims to spread geological knowledge among society and contribute to heritage conservation. To be designated, a stone must be formally proposed to the Heritage Stones Subcommission of the International Commission on Geoheritage (HSS/ICG — IUGS), following the HSS reporting standard, with the stone’s detailed and scientifically documented geological and technological characteristics, source quarries, and justification of the candidate stone’s cultural value for humanity. To date, there are 32 IUGS designated Heritage Stones; some components of the heritage of many countries in the world, such as Carrara Marble from Italy, and others of regional use but of significance to global culture because they integrate UNESCO World Heritage Sites, such as the Jaisalmer Limestone of India. From Brazil, two stones will be proposed in 2023: the Facoidal Gneiss from Rio de Janeiro and the Steatite from Minas Gerais. The scarce and scattered available information in Brazil on the stony materials used in heritage presents a challenge. Geoscientists’ contribution is essential to propose new IUGS — Heritage Stones candidates by documenting Brazilian stones’ characteristics, origin and uses. Furthermore, sharing knowledge with professionals from other areas and disseminating it to society contributes to Brazilian cultural heritage conservation.