Once a year Tucson Arizona is home to the single largest gem show in the world. Exhibitors and buye
rs descend upon this mid sized town virtually taking over every venue in the city. In all there are 44 different shows running simultaneously. Each show has it’s own niche. These vary from loose beads, finished jewelry, minerals or geodes and much more. Many are wholesale only shows and a few are open to the general public.
I have the pleasure of attending this event. Tucson is a short 2 hour drive from my home. With the added advantage of Tucson relatives, I get to avoid the hassle of trying to find hotel space too. My two favorite shows are the JOGS Show and the GLW Show. Both are w
holesale shows. They cater to the type of product I purchase. (cabochons, silver findings, display materials). FYI, these two shows alone feature over 800 booths! After so many years I know many of the vendors. This makes it easier to find what I am looking for.
That being said, I always LOVE finding something new. This year it was Amethyst
Geodes from Uruguay. I cannot WAIT to get these bezeled and into a design!
I was also able to find some new display materials. I am excited to add these to the Shops who carry my designs. I love the earthy, wood finish.
Last but not least, I took a metals class this year. This new cuff design appeals to me so much. I am poised to create many variations from this template. Can’t you just envision a cuff[tweet_dis_img]
[/tweet_dis_img] in sterling with a gemstone?
Time to get to the bench and start designing.
Hope you enjoyed my thoughts on the Gem Show!
How exciting! And you sound so inspired, Alene. The show must be truly amazing with so many booths. I love gemstones so I think it would feel to me like Wonderland. Love the wooden displays and looking forward to seeing your next creations.
Thanks Tamuyria. It does feel like wonderland?
Learning something new always excites me too. The wood is beautiful and those fish earrings I spy in the corner look great.
Thanks Christy. I love the wood displays too. I think they complement my aesthetic so well
OMG.. I love that cuff… but would prefer in silver.. wow.. totally cute.
Back to your post.. I bet you are like a kid in a candy store or Kristen at a margarita fest… with you being at that gem show.. wow.. how much fun!
Thanks Kristen. Working on a basic silver version of the cuff this weekend. So many possibilities ?
Alene, love the gem show. The first time I went I was blown away by the variety and the size. What people don’t know is the show extends all over the city, not only at the downtown center. So many beautiful stones, minerals, fossils, and beads It really stimulates your creativity.I’ll be on the look out for your new designs.
Thanks Joan. Yes the show takes up the entire city. Hard to believe but true
I certainly can tell that you love what you do Alene! I am sure you will create something totally unique and beautiful like your other pieces.
Thanks for the kudos Teresa. Yes I am busy creating this weekend. So much fun
Your pieces are so unique and beautiful! I bet a gem show is your happy place for sure!
It is my happy place! Only eclipsed by spending time at the bench using the gems I bought
Oh, I am so jealous! Selling vintage jewelry has made me fall in love with the designs, and hunger to learn more. Those amethyst geodes are incredible. Perhaps I should schedule a February trip next year! Thanks for sharing, and can’t wait to see what you create!
Thanks Robin. You would love the show! Just let me know if it happens and we can connect in person
From your story, I can tell that you love your job. I am not aware of the gem show in Arizona but giving the scoop of it, I am sure it is fun being there with all these jewels.
Kid in a candy store comes to mind when I think of the gem show. Lots of fun
Always learning something new about what you are most passionate about, which is jewelry and gemstones, will get those creative juices flowing! Sounds like you had a great time at the Tucson gem show Alene!
Thanks for sharing your thoughts!
Thanks Joan. I am passionate about the gems..and the metal too. Love sharing these tidbits too?
Arlene,
A great article and jewelry looks nice that braclet is very nice and like the way it curves around your wrist.
Lori English
Thanks Lori. Appreciate it?
Each year when I come to Sedona, people talk about the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show! I know how expansive it is and I also know my daughter and I would LOVE to have the opportunity to attend to see all the incredible gemstones (and other things) the vendors have. It sounds like you are really inspired and excited to start designing new pieces with your finds at the show, Alene! Happy creating and I look forward to seeing the resulting designs too.
thanks so much Beverley. Yes I agree that this show is the talk of the state. There really is nothing else like it. Even Vegas; the mecca for giant shows does not have a show that takes up the ENTIRE city. I love it! SO much to explore.
The cuff is gorgeous, Alene. Can’t wait to see the amethyst designs, too.
thanks Reba. Just finished two new cuff designs based upon the prototype I created in the class.. So much fun!
Love seeing your creativity and creations. I grew up in Texas and silver and turquoise are some of my faves. I have never been to a gem show sounds like too much fun!
Thanks April. Yes you would LOVE the gem show in Tucson. There are smaller ones around the country but nothing like this one.
Trade shows are always good for making new connections and getting new ideas etc.