Holiday planning and sales might be taking over our lives now, but those in the know are looking ahead to the Tucson gem shows. Jewelry makers, metalsmiths, rockhounds, beaders, and other members of our creative communities will gather in January and February to sell, shop, learn, and recharge. Here are some tips from frequent Tucson travelers.
Above: Turquoise cabochons by Jeff Fulkerson
Survive and Thrive
Cynthia Thornton, owner of Green Girl Studios, has visited Tucson many times as a vendor and buyer. From seeing new gemstones to trendspotting and soaking up the desert vibe, she advises taking a few basic steps to get the most out of your Tucson adventure:
Pack a Tucson Gem Shows Survival Kit:
- wet wipes (handling beads and rocks gets dusty!)
- all-purpose balm for dry skin because it’s dry out there
- water bottle
- hat/sun protection
- packable jacket because it can suddenly get cold
- small notebook to write down prices
- small rolling cart
Remember to set a budget before you go, shop from a list, take time to visit several show venues, and leave room for serendipity. For more advice from Cynthia and her brother Andrew Thornton, read Treasure Hunting in the Tucson Desert and Jewelry Trends spotted in Tucson.
Shop and Learn
Sandra Lupo, inventor of the Conetastic family of tools, looks forward to Tucson all year long. She says, “I particularly like the Gem Mall and Holidome for rocks (big and small), beads, findings, tools, and ready-to-own artisan crafts. When I’m searching for quality gems, perhaps to set in a ring, I’ll shop at GJX. I also head to the African Village retail show for colorful and large-hole glass beads, and African crafts, too!”
Sandra always takes classes to expand her jewelry making skills while she’s at the gem shows. She especially enjoys taking metalworking classes held by Vivi Magoo at the Westin La Paloma. Sandra says, “The venue is in the Catalina Foothills and the classes are excellent for beginner to advanced techniques.”
Follow Sandra’s jewelry making adventures on Facebook @SandraLupoJewelryDesigner and Instagram @SandraLupoDesigns.
Know Before You Go
While some shows are open to the public, some require wholesale ID and retail sales license. Use the Tucson Show Guide to plan your route and check show requirements. Save time by preregistering before you travel. Or bring the proper documents with you to the shows and plan extra time for waiting in line.
If you expect to do any shopping for clients, be sure you have a plan for how you’ll relay information or ask questions. Facetime and Zoom make it easy to video chat, but texting pictures gives you a record of what you discussed. Tamara Honaman advises using your own hot spot for faster internet access.
Read Tips for Shopping the Tucson Gem Shows by Jeff Fulkerson for more expert tips. What are your best tips for shopping the Tucson Gem Shows? Let us know in the comments!