MineDeco, LLC: Crafting Elegance from Unearthed Masterpieces of Mexico

Based in McAllen, Texas, MineDeco, LLC, is a testament to family tradition and artisanal craftsmanship in home decor. Founded by the Leija family, MineDeco transforms the natural beauty of minerals into exquisite decorative items. From handcrafted bowls and elegant wall-mounted slabs to functional lamps and intricate sculptures, MineDeco’s creations bring nature’s splendor into every living space.

MineDeco’s journey began in 2020 when the Leija family started mining calcites in Durango, Mexico. Initially a local endeavor, their operations expanded nationally with their debut at The HardRock Summit in Denver in September 2022. This marked the start of their mission to share the beauty of Mexican minerals with a broader audience. 

Jaime Sr., who has owned a construction business since 2007, diversified into mining and brought the family together for this project. Jaime Leija Jr. is a chef who owned a restaurant in Mexico. When it was forced to close due to the pandemic, he shifted his attention to selling calcites full-time in 2021. Although Jaime says shutting down the restaurant was a great loss, starting a family business has been a rewarding experience, allowing him to turn adversity into creativity. 

Yuliana Leija, Jaime Sr.’s daughter, joined the family business in 2022 with her business and project management background. The crew also includes Dario, who joined in 2023 after finishing his bachelor's degree in Engineering. The family’s varied and diverse background makes for a dynamic team.

Transforming Nature into Art

MineDeco's mission is to infuse everyday spaces with natural elegance. Their collection includes handcrafted items such as bowls, wall-mounted slabs, lamps, sculptures, and collectible specimens. Each piece is a unique creation, crafted from high-quality minerals. 

Yuliana says that when she and her family discovered a few years back how beautiful pieces of art could be crafted from stone, they decided to create their own line of beautifully carved stone art and decor. Yuliana shares. “Handcrafted bowls and the beautiful dance that onyx and light do when paired together inspired us to share it with others. We learned how to incorporate onyx luminaries and rough calcite crystals into our own homes as part of our ambiance to transform spaces filled with positive energy and beauty, and (soon after) we decided to venture into home decor with minerals.” 

MineDeco’s ownership of green calcite and white onyx mines is integral to their success. “Being the owners of the green calcite and white onyx mines allows us to manufacture directly,” Yuliana explains. “This not only ensures the quality of our products but also enables us to offer lower prices at events like gem shows. Our direct involvement from mining to manufacturing helps us maintain the highest standards while providing exceptional value.” Each item in MineDeco’s collection is a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. “No two items are exactly alike,” Yuliana adds. “The natural variations in the minerals mean that every piece we create has its own distinct character and charm. This uniqueness is at the heart of what we do.”

Personalized Service and Unique Creations

MineDeco distinguishes itself through personalized service. Understanding that each mineral piece is unique, they forgo the conventional online store model for a more bespoke approach. Their team communicates closely with clients through calls, photos, and videos to help them find the perfect piece. “We believe that every piece of mineral art should resonate with its owner,” Yuliana says. “Since no two pieces are the same, our personalized service ensures that our clients find something truly special and tailored to their preferences.”

Running MineDeco has been a journey of discovery and connection for the Leija family. They have delved into the differences between calcite, onyx, and marble, each with unique qualities. The versatility of these materials allows them to be crafted into various items, from lamps and dishes to sculptures and wall ornaments. “One of the most fulfilling aspects of this business is meeting people who share our passion for minerals,” Jaime shares. “The unique nature of each piece means that every interaction is an opportunity to connect over something truly special. We love hearing how our creations become cherished parts of our clients' homes.”

Upcoming Shows and Events

MineDeco will be exhibiting and selling its offerings at the major gem and mineral showcases in Tucson and Denver in the coming year:

• Tucson 2025: Kino Gem & Mineral Show, Outside Tents

• Denver 2025: The Denver Show at the National Western Complex, Level 1

These events provide a unique opportunity to explore MineDeco’s handcrafted mineral

masterpieces directly from the artisans. Attendees will have the chance to view and purchase these stunning creations while learning more about the artistry and craftsmanship behind each piece.

At MineDeco every item is more than just a decoration—it’s a reflection of nature’s splendor and the Leija family’s dedication to artisanal excellence. By transforming raw minerals into beautiful, functional art pieces, MineDeco brings a touch of natural elegance into homes across the globe. Explore their collection and discover how the timeless beauty of handcrafted mineral decor can enhance your living space.