Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase 2026

The world's largest gem and mineral event — 40+ shows, 3,300+ vendors, and buyers from 44 countries descend on Tucson every winter.

The World's Largest Gem Event

Every January and February, Tucson, Arizona transforms into the global epicenter of the gem and mineral trade. The Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase is not a single show — it's an entire ecosystem of 40+ independent shows spread across hotels, convention centers, warehouses, and open-air markets throughout the metro area.

For wholesale buyers, Tucson is unmatched. With an economic impact exceeding $286 million, this is where the global gem trade converges. Whether you're sourcing colored gemstones, rough material, mineral specimens, fossils, beads, or finished jewelry, the sheer concentration of vendors and product categories is impossible to replicate anywhere else.

The shows span roughly three weeks, with satellite venues opening as early as late January and the prestigious TGMS Main Show closing mid-February. Most wholesale activity peaks during the first ten days of February when all the major trade shows overlap.

Pro Tip from Bennett Gems

Plan at least 4-5 days for a serious wholesale buying trip to Tucson. The shows are spread across the city and you'll want time at both the trade-only venues (AGTA, GJX, G&LW) and the large open-market shows (22nd Street, Kino, Pueblo) where you can find competitive pricing on volume purchases. Use the GemRide shuttle to move between the I-10 corridor and Oracle Road venues efficiently.

Wholesale Trade-Only Shows

These venues require wholesale credentials — EIN, tax ID, or business license. No public access.

G&LW Tucson Holidome

Tucson, AZ • 200+ vendors

Trade Only beadsjewelrylapidary

G&LW Tucson Gem Mall

Tucson, AZ • 275+ vendors

Trade Only gemsmineralsjewelry

AGTA GemFair Tucson

Tucson, AZ • 300+ vendors

Trade Only gemsjewelrypearls

Open Shows with Wholesale Access

Open to the public with wholesale pricing available when you present valid trade credentials.

Mineral City Tucson

Tucson, AZ • 200 vendors

Wholesale mineralscrystalsgems

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the Tucson Gem Show 2026?

The Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase runs from late January through mid-February 2026. The earliest shows open January 24, with most major venues running January 29 through February 15. The original TGMS Main Show closes the season February 12-15.

Do I need a wholesale license for Tucson gem shows?

Several Tucson shows are trade-only and require wholesale credentials (EIN, state tax ID, business license, or JBT number). These include AGTA GemFair, GJX, and G&LW shows. Many other shows are open to the public with wholesale pricing available when you present your credentials.

Which Tucson gem show is best for wholesale buyers?

For colored gemstones and pearls, AGTA GemFair is the premier wholesale venue. GJX offers the broadest range of wholesale gems and jewelry with 700+ booths. The 22nd Street Show has 400+ vendors with wholesale pricing available. Your best choice depends on what you buy — mineral specimens, cut gems, rough material, or finished jewelry.

How many gem shows are there in Tucson?

There are over 40 individual gem shows spread across the Tucson metro area during the annual showcase. Major venues range from wholesale-only trade shows to massive open-air markets with hundreds of vendors each.

Is parking free at Tucson gem shows?

Parking varies by venue. Kino and JOGS offer free parking. The 22nd Street Show charges $10 for on-site parking. The GemRide shuttle connects major venues along the I-10 and Oracle Road corridors, which is often easier than driving between shows.