| Is the Tucson Gem & Mineral ShowTM the same event as the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase? No. The Tucson Gem & Mineral ShowTM is the original feature show and combined with the smaller satellite shows, helps make up the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase. When is the Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase? February 2-17, 2008. However, dates for individual shows vary. Search in the right-hand column of the Gem Show main page for specific information on a show. When and where is the Tucson Gem & Mineral ShowTM? It will be held at the Tucson Convention Center, February 14-17, 2008 at the Tucson Convention Center. Will the construction on I-10 affect any of the shows? No. All of the shows will be open and easy to go to. For construction updates call 877-961-1010 or visit www.i10tucson.com. We also provide updated Shuttle and Parking information. What about parking and transportation? Shuttle services are available for transportation to most of the showcase shows. Parking is also available. Click to find complete information on shuttle times, stops, routes and parking locations. How many people attend the Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase? Nearly 55,000 people visit shows over the two weeks. How many shows make up the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase? There are more than 45 different shows throughout the Tucson area. How much does it cost to get in? Most of the shows are free. The Tucson Gem & Mineral ShowTM charges a small admission fee. You can find more information on their website. How do I get a booth at the Gem Show? Each show sells their own booth space. You must contact those running each show for space availability and costs. Can I get into all of the shows? Most of the shows are open to the public. For wholesale only shows, you must present your business license, taxpayer ID number and business card to register. Where do I register for a wholesale show? You can register at the show itself. However, some of the larger wholesale only shows, like the AGTA GemFair and G&LW Holidome, offer online registration through their websites. What can I buy? You can find everything from rare diamonds to boxes made of petrified wood. Dealers specialize in loose stones, jewelry, African art, beads, polished stones, minerals, fossils and gifts. 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. What times do the shows run? Shows open between 8 am and 10 am and close between 6 pm and 8 pm. Refer to the show listings for exact times. Can I get something to eat at the show? Yes. Most shows have a variety of food vendors on property or are located close to restaurants. Where do I get a tax ID number? Contact the City of Tucson. What else can I do at the shows? The Tucson Gem & Mineral ShowTM has unique museum-quality exhibits that change each year. Most of the shows feature a unique 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. Are dates set for future Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcases? Yes. Dates for the next few years are: January 31 - February 15, 2009 January 30 - February 14, 2010 January 29 - February 13, 2011 How can I be hired to drive a Gem Ride shuttle? Gem Ride is operated by an independent contractor--Driver Provider. You can reach them at 602-453-0001. |