Desert gardens gem and mineral show 2023

1. How many shows make up the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase?

The next shows take place in September 2023 and January 2023 Visit tucsongemshowapp.com for listings.

2. How many people attend the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase?

Nearly 65,000 visitors on average visit the winter shows.

3. What times are the shows open?

Shows open between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. and close between 6 p.m. and 8 p.m. Refer to the show listings for exact times. (Fall / Winter)

4. What kind of exhibits are at the shows and what can I buy?

You can find everything from gemstones and meteorites to rare diamonds and to boxes made of petrified wood. Dealers specialize in loose stones, jewelry, African art, beads, polished stones, minerals, fossils, and gifts. Check the winter Gem Show listings for more information.

5. How do I find a hotel room during the event?

If you are seeking accommodations for fewer than 10 room nights, please call Visit Tucson Visitor Information Services at 1-800-638-8350. Our team stays on top of where the available hotel rooms are -- for your convenience! If you require more than 10 room nights, please contact our Sales Team at 520-770-2139. View Tucson hotel rooms.

6. Can I get something to eat at the shows?

Yes. Most shows have a variety of food vendors on the property or are located close to restaurants.

7. Can I get rocks, gems, and/or minerals identified?

Some shows provide appraisers. As with any purchase, it is best to do some homework before buying.

8. I don't want to carry my treasures on the plane home. Where can I have them packed and shipped?

Select shows offer packing and shipping on property. Inquire with the individual shows. 

9. What else can I do at the shows?

The Tucson Gem & Mineral Show® has unique museum-quality exhibits that change each year. Most of the shows feature an unusual or rare item on display, such as the world's largest meteorite or a five-foot-tall geode. The shows also provide a great way to meet and network with people from around the world.

10. How do I advertise in Gem Show Guide?

The Official Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase Program Guide and Map are published by Madden Media and Visit Tucson. Advertising opportunities are limited, with priority going to prior advertisers as well as the shows themselves. There are other guides to the Showcase that may have advertising opportunities available, including Metaphysical Guide Magazine () and Tucson E-Z Guide ().

11. How do I receive a Gem Show Guide by mail?

To accommodate all the participating shows, the guides are produced close to the Showcase opening and are not available in advance via U.S. Mail. The printed version of the Official Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase Program Guide is available at the Southern Arizona Heritage Visitor Center and at all gem shows.

12. Are dates set for future Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase events?

Fall Gem Show: September 2023 Dates TBA

Winter Gem Shows:

• January 28-February 12, 2023
• January 27-February 11, 2024
• February 1-16, 2025

13. Where can I find information for show dealers and vendors?

Go to our Gem Show Dealer and Vendor information page.

14. How Do I Get Around the Gem Shows?

The Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase consists of over 4,000 exhibitors and buyers from 42 states and 17 countries at 50 locations. If you want to pair your gem show stops with a tour of downtown Tucson restaurants and entertainment, use the Tucson Sun Link streetcar. There are plenty of parking options, here are a few useful tips:

Parking

Park at any downtown garage. The Official Tucson Gem Show Guide mobile website is updated prior to the showcase. 

Sun Link Streetcar

The streetcar connects four downtown dining and entertainment districts -- Main Gate Square, Historic Fourth Avenue, Downtown Tucson, Mercado San Agustin. Cash is not accepted on the streetcar; pay with either a one-day, three-day or 30-day SunGo pass, available on the free GoTucson Transit mobile app (also GoTucsonTransit.com) from GooglePlay or iTunes. Information on purchasing Tucson Transit tickets, whether or not you are an iPhone or Android user, is available on suntran.com/fares_passes.php.

Metered Parking

Use your smartphone to pay for parking at one of 1,800+ metered spaces. Smartphone notifications are available. Use the GoTucson Parking App: Download from GooglePlay. Download from iTunes.

Tugo Bike Share 

Tugo is a network of bicycles available for rent for short trips around central Tucson. Use the CycleFinder app: Download on GooglePlay. Download from iTunes.

Travel Responsibly

Visit Tucson is committed to promoting responsible travel to our region. We encourage travelers to follow all health and safety protocols and be aware of current CDC and local guidelines. For more information and resources please visit our COVID-19 Resources page.