The Tucson Gem Shows
Posted by Leah on Jan 11, 2007
The annual Tucson Gem Shows are coming up in a few weeks. For the first time in several years, I don’t think I’m going to be able to attend the shows.
For hobbyists as well as professional jewelers, the Tucson shows are a must-see. Some shows are open to the public, while others require a resale license, business cards, wholesale invoices, and various other types of paperwork as proof that you really are in the jewelry business. Even if you aren’t in the business, there are plenty of shows you can attend.
There are bead shows, gem shows, shows that sell rough for cutting or making cabochons, finished jewelry shows. too demos, and jewelry classes for all levels of jewelry making expertise. Plus, industry experts from all over the world are there, and there are networking opportunities, such as Ganoksin’s Orchid forum dinner.
One of my favorite events to attend is Rio Grande’s catalog in motion, where you get to see just about everything from Rio’s tool catalog demonstrated. Last year I learned how to use the Tri-cord knotter for pearl knotting, and saw demos of all kinds of fun tools for everything from metalsmithing to beadwork to resin. It’s very inspiring, and tempting to blow a few months’ salary on tools!
If anyone reading plans to go to Tucson and is wondering about different shows, feel free to contact me (michon at michondesign dot com). If I can’t go to Tucson this year, I can at least talk to people about it and live vicariously that way!
