O COOPERATIVISMO EMPRESARIAL COMO ESTRATÉGIA PARA A FORMALIZAÇÃO DO MERCADO BRASILEIRO DE GEMAS E JOIAS

The present study aims to investigate business cooperativism as a strategy to formalize and strengthen the Brazilian gems and jewelry market, promoting productive organization, professional appreciation, and sustainable economic development in the sector. In the gems and jewelry sector, this model represents an effective strategy to overcome barriers of informality, facilitate access to regulated markets, ensure certifications, and strengthen regional and national sustainable development. This study examines business cooperativism as an effective strategy to formalize and strengthen the Brazilian gems and jewelry market, a sector traditionally marked by informality and lack of organization. Based on principles such as democratic management and economic participation, the model is presented as a solid alternative to promote productive inclusion, enhance artisanal work, and stimulate sustainable development. Using a qualitative and bibliographic approach, the study analyzes national and international experiences of cooperatives, highlighting the role of institutions such as the Brazilian Institute of Gems and Precious Metals (IBGM), Sindijoias, and Sicoob in structuring policies and practices aimed at formalizing the sector. The theoretical framework is grounded in the contributions of Paul Singer, whose work on solidarity economy and self-management provides conceptual foundations for understanding cooperativism as an instrument of economic and social transformation. It is observed that the adoption of the cooperative model favors the creation of intercooperation networks, facilitates access to credit and origin certifications, reduces operational costs, and strengthens the competitiveness of micro and small jewelry companies. Furthermore, it promotes the integration of producers into global value chains, while encouraging sustainable and socially responsible practices. It is concluded that business cooperativism not only contributes to the formalization of activities but also redefines the productive structure of the gems and jewelry sector, offering a viable path toward balancing economic efficiency, social justice, and environmental preservation.