6 Must-Visit Sites at the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show

Home to the largest gem and mineral show in the world, Tucson, Arizona, is bustling with people and excitement each year starting at the end of January. A dazzling spectacle that draws gem enthusiasts, collectors, wholesalers, and curious minds from around the world. The best part? Most of the sites are also open to the public. It’s a unique opportunity to view incredible and unique specimens and shop at wholesale prices. Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, it's an incredible experience to visit the Tucson Gem Show. 

With over 50 sites across the city, there’s something for everyone from loose gemstones to jewelry to agate slices to home decor to fossils and more! And the community is fantastic too - there are so many interesting folks that come to visit from all over the world! Overwhelmed by all the options and not sure which sites to visit? In this blog post, we'll share details about our 6 favorite Gem and Mineral Show sites. We prefer the sites that are more casual and a bit less crowded so we can take our time and explore. And if they have really unique home decor? Even better! If you’ve never been to the Gem Show before, check out the 10 things you should know when planning your visit, too.

Quick Tips:

• Most vendors accept credit cards, but if you have cash some vendors may be willing to negotiate. 

• Many items are marked with their price, however, the bigger stones are typically sold by the kilogram so you’ll need to have it weighed to get the price. 

• Remember, each item is one of a kind. If you love it, buy it. There’s a good chance it won’t be there if you go back later.

• Take a heavy duty reusable shopping tote or cart if you plan to buy stuff. 

• Traveling from out of the area? Bring an empty hard sided suitcase! Bonus points if you fill it with bubble wrap and bring packing tape to make it really easy to take your treasures home. Paying the checked bag fee of $25 is always cheaper than shipping!
  

our top 6 Tucson Gem Show sites

1. Globex/Red Lion Inn

Location: 222 S Freeway Road (Congress & I-10)

Hours: 10 am to 6 pm daily, free admission

Parking: Several lots nearby with small fee

Website: https://gigmshow.com/redlion/

A quirky location packed with a wide variety of gems, crystals, singing bowls, jewelry, fossils and even Persian rugs. There are several parking lots within a short walk. This is one of our go-to locations each year because it has such a wide range of selection and great prices. If you want to see everything, plan for 2-3 hours to wander the entire site. The terrain is uneven in many places, so wear comfy shoes and ensure that you are stable on your feet. DiGrande booth from Brazil has some of the most stunning agate and amethyst pieces. Along the west side of the courtyard, you’ll find lots of smaller stones, affordable jewelry, and great gift ideas. Head to the very south end of the lot to the JP International Rock Shop Closeouts booth for “rock bottom” prices on bookends, huge salt lamps, spires, and more.

2. Kino Gem Show

Location: 2500 E Ajo Way (parking lot of the Kino Stadium)

Hours: 10 am to 6 pm daily, free admission

Parking: Free 

Website: http://www.as-shows.com/kino-gem-show

Wear your sneakers and bring a big shopping tote because there is a TON to explore in the 40 acres of exhibit space! Plan for 4-8 hours of exploring this sprawling complex that features a vast selection of gemstones, minerals, beads, and jewelry. This show offers a diverse range of products, from affordable souvenirs to high-end collector's items. Parking is plentiful and free. There are a few small food vendors, but if you’re planning a full day you may want to leave for lunch and come back. Make sure to visit Michal & Co (booth T7) for some spectacular large items that you’ll want to take pictures with. Village Originals (booth T3) has a wide and spectacular selection of agate slices of all sizes, small decor, obelisks, butterfly wings, onyx tables, petrified wood items, and more. 

3. JOGS

Location: 3750 E Irvington Rd (Tucson Expo Center)

Hours: 10 am to 6 pm daily, with an admission fee of $12 per person (buy in advance online for a discounted rate)

Parking: Free

Website: https://jogsshow.com/

If you like jewelry and gemstones, this is the spot! JOGS showcases an extensive collection of gems, minerals, and jewelry from around the globe. Whatever your style, from amber to jade, and rings to necklaces to earrings, it’s all here. This site is incredibly busy with lots of wholesalers, so while there is a lot of free parking, be prepared to hunt for a spot. There is a food court with some great dining options but make sure you have cash.

4. GIGM/Motel 6

Location: 1010 South Freeway (Congress & I-10)

Hours: 10 am to 6 pm daily, free admission

Parking: Free

Website: https://gigmshow.com/motel6/

Don’t let the name fool you. This is a fantastic location with lots of Insta-worthy large specimens. You’ll still find other smaller items like onyx bowls, beaded jewelry, pyramids, and more. 

5. 22nd Street Show

Location: 600 W 22nd St (the white tent at 22nd St & I-10)

Hours: 10 am to 6 pm daily, free admission

Parking: $10

Website: https://22ndstreet.show/

With a huge selection under one tent, a must-visit for those seeking exceptional minerals, fossils, and gemstones. This is one of the most popular sites for locals and visitors to check out, but that also means it's the most crowded. 

6. The Official Tucson Gem & Mineral Show

Location: 260 S. Church Avenue (Tucson Convention Center)

Hours: See website, $12 admission

Parking: Paid parking garage (bring cash!)

Website: https://www.tgms.org/show

The Tucson Gem & Mineral Society puts on this incredible 4 day event. See rare and unique specimens from collectors, learning about the history and science. Each year features a different type of gem or mineral. There are also several booths to shop at.

We hope this helps you plan your visit! If you’re visit from out of state and need a gorgeous and impeccably clean place to stay, check out our upscale vacation homes in Tucson. While Gem Show dates typically fill up by October of the year prior, you may find a few days available on our calendar.