city, central Minas Gerais estado (state), southeastern Brazil. It lies in the mineral-laden Espinhaço Mountains at 4,140 feet (1,262 metres) above sea level. Formerly called Tejuco, the city has some colonial buildings and a diamond museum. Textile mills, diamond-cutting and goldsmithing establishments, and ironworks contribute to the economy. The historic centre of the city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999. Pop. (2005 est.) 37,800.