I got stoned in Tucson

Let’s forget about the whys and wherefores – you already know this annual pilgrimage is a gem lover's paradise. Instead, let me take you through the gems, the grub, and the unforgettable moments that made this trip one for the books.

A bit of insider info: While most of these gem shows are primarily for trade insiders – wholesalers, retail buyers, and designers – I've got some crafty friends who managed to snag passes through alternative channels!

The Shows
First up, the AGTA Gem Fair. Held at the Tucson Convention Center, this is where American gemstone dealers come to shine. Picture rows upon rows of a kaleidoscope of colors. Right across the hall, in the grand ballroom, you'll find the jewelry show. It's like stepping into a treasure trove where the past meets the present. From antique heirlooms steeped in history to contemporary creations that push the boundaries of design, there's something here for every jewelry lover's taste.

Top row at American Gem Corp: a Victorian buttercup suite, original Victorian necklace, French twin stone ring. Bottom row at ProVockative: Victorian pendant earrings