The Tucson Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Showcase is a must-visit event for enthusiasts and professionals alike. Scheduled from January 30 to February 16, 2025, this showcase features nearly 50 shows across Tucson, each offering a unique array of gems, minerals, fossils, and jewelry.
My Favorite Shows
Here are some downtown gem shows that I recommend. Some of the shows require registration before entering. The links are to venue websites. Happy gem hunting!
North Tucson/Downtown Gem Shows
GJX (wholesale, need license)
Feb 3-8
198 S. Granada Ave.
A premier wholesale-only gem and jewelry show at 198 S. Granada Ave., Tucson, AZ. Admission requires industry credentials. Pre-registration is highly recommended as they have tightened their buyer requirements this year.
22nd Street Mineral, Fossil and Gem Show (open to public)
Jan 30 to Feb 16
Northwest corner of 22nd St. and I-10 Highway
Popular show featuring over 350 dealers, offering minerals, fossils, and gems.
Pueblo Gem & Mineral Show (open to public)
Jan 30 to February 11
Riverpark Inn, 350 S. Freeway
Renowned show exhibiting crystals, gems, minerals, and handmade products. Rough gemstones for faceting can be found here.
Rapa River (open to public)
Feb 1-16
292 S. Freeway Ave.
Features rocks, fossils, minerals, and art with 39 exhibitors.
Mineral & Fossil Co-Op (open to public)
Jan 31 to Feb 16
1635 Oracle Road
Showcases fossils, minerals, and artifacts from 13 exhibitors. Museum quality specimens like dinosaur skeletons can be found here.
Mineral and Fossil Marketplace (open to public)
Jan 30 to Feb 16
1333 N Oracle Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705
The Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase is an annual event in Tucson, Arizona, featuring over 40 shows with crystals, fossils, minerals, and jewelry.
SNAG@Tucson
February 6-8
Cathedral Square Center, 192 S Stone Ave.
SNAG @ Tucson is an annual event organized by the Society of North American Goldsmiths (SNAG) during the Tucson Gem Show. Scheduled for February 6-8, 2025, at the Cathedral Square Center in Tucson, Arizona, it is the only event during the Tucson Gem Show dedicated to tools, equipment, materials, and education. I have never been able to attend this show but plan to in the future.
Faceters Paradise/Bead Holiday
Faceters Paradise Facebook
Jan 27 to Feb 5
Feb 10-11
355 E Fort Lowell Rd, Tucson, AZ 85705
Faceters Paradise is an official Ultra Tec dealer in Tucson. At this show, you can pick up faceting supplies, and new and used machines.
South Tucson Gem Shows
The following show are located south of downtown Tucson. The easiest way to get here is by car or Gem Shuttles.
KINO (wholesale, open to public)
Jan 30 to Feb 16
Kino Sports Complex
2500 E Ajo Way.
A huge outdoor show selling gems, jewelry, minerals, artisan and home goods. One of the best shows in my opinion.
JOGS (wholesale, need license)
Jan 29 to Feb 9
Tucson Expo Center
3750 E. Irvington Road
One of the oldest wholesale shows in Tucson selling beads, gemstones, jewelry, and home goods.
To Bead True Blue (Open to public)
Feb 1-8
Casino Del Sol Resort & Convention Center
5655 West Valencia RoadTo Bead True Blue is a premier artisan show held at Casino Del Sol in Tucson, Arizona, from February 1-8, 2025. This event brings together independent artisans, traditional designers, and studio artists, showcasing handcrafted gemstones, fine art jewelry, and vintage collectibles. Attendees can also participate in over 500 workshops covering bead making, jewelry design, and metalwork.
Navigating the Shows
With events spread throughout the city, efficient transportation is key. While the City of Tucson's GemRide shuttle service remains suspended, several show organizers provide complimentary shuttles:
- Turquoise Route: Operating from February 1-8, 10 am – 6 pm, with stops at Colors of the Stone/To Bead True Blue/Casino Del Sol, Gem Mall/Holidome, JOGS, and JG&M (Simpson St HUB).
- Blue Route: Running February 1-9, 10 am – 6 pm, at 15-minute intervals, connecting Gem Mall/Holidome and JG&M (Simpson St HUB).
- Copper Route: Available January 30-February 9, 10 am – 6 pm, at 15-minute intervals, linking Kino, Gem Mall/Holidome, Enter the Earth, and Tucson Expo Center.
- Ruby Express Route: In service February 1-9, 10 am – 6 pm, shuttling between Tucson Expo Center, Kino, and JG&M (Simpson St HUB).
- Gold Route/Red Lion Inn Buyer/Vendor: Operating February 1-15, with Buyer/Vendor Route from 8 am-11 am & 3 pm-6 pm, and Gold Route from 11 am-3 pm, covering Motel 6, Quality Inn, JG&M (Simpson St HUB), Red Lion Inn, and Congress St. Parking.
- Diamond Route (Buyers Only): Active February 4-9, 10 am – 6 pm, providing direct service from JOGS to Tucson Convention Center (AGTA).
For areas not covered by these shuttles, Tucson's public transit system offers free streetcar services throughout the downtown area, bringing you within walking distance of many shows. For venues located in South Tucson, such as JOGS and the Holidome, consider using rideshare services or renting a car.
Parking Options
If you're driving, downtown Tucson offers several public parking garages:
345 E. Congress Street (Centro Garage)
211 S. Church Ave (La Placita Garage)
45 N. 5th Ave. (Depot Plaza Garage)
110 E. Pennington St. (Pennington Street Garage)
Planning your parking in advance can save time and reduce stress.
The map below contains most of the gem show venue locations and parking. Here is the map in Google Maps. The Purple pins are parking areas and the blue pins are the shows.
Exploring Tucson's Attractions
Beyond the gem shows, Tucson boasts a variety of parks and museums worth visiting:
- Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum: A fusion of zoo, botanical garden, and natural history museum, offering insights into the region's flora and fauna.
- Saguaro National Park: Home to the nation's largest cacti, it provides scenic drives and hiking trails through the iconic Sonoran Desert landscape.
- Pima Air & Space Museum: One of the world's largest aerospace museums, featuring over 350 historical aircraft.
- Reid Park Zoo: A compact yet diverse zoo housing over 250 animals from various habitats.
- Tucson Museum of Art: Showcases a broad collection of art, from pre-Columbian pieces to contemporary works.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Plan Ahead: With numerous shows and venues, having a clear itinerary will help maximize your visit.
Rent Your Car Before You Arrive. Save time lining up to rent your car at the airport by booking ahead.
Stay Updated: Show dates and shuttle services can change; regularly check official websites for the latest information.
Comfort First: Wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated to navigate the expansive venues with ease.
The Tucson Gem Show offers a vibrant experience for all attendees. By planning your transportation and taking time to explore Tucson's attractions, you're set for a memorable visit.