When you come to Tucson for the phenomenon commonly called “Gem Show,” you’ll be treating yourself to the joys, colors and smells of a world market.
Vendors come from all over… Africa, Greece, Tibet, India and South America. And with them, come the color, the stones and the cultures of the handicrafts they bring.
Two Days at Gem Show
We focused on two main shows, each taking a day for us to explore. First the JOGS show, always an International delight, provided us with treasures from Tibet including beautifully colored tree sap beads, bright and cheerful folk art jewelry from Guatemala and silver from Taxco, Mexico. When exploring the booths, it is enjoyable to talk with the artists and business people who have come so far to sell their wares. We enjoyed meeting a young Greek-American designer who had created a line of jewelry, made in Greece that was based on copper wire fused with a wide range of soft, stylish colors.
Our visit to JOGS was topped off with a delicious Afghani lunch.. lamb, pita and amazing spices, all served up from a tent in front of the building.
The next day, an even busier day was spent at the GLW shows, commonly known as “Gem Mall.” Two huge semi-permanent tents held treasures from Africa, the Middle-East, China and South America. With these treasures came the vendors, many of whom spoke minimal English. It is an amazing opportunity to meet people from all over the world and purchase beads, gems, antiques and folk art. Both of these shows are wholesale shows, but there are many areas where international vendors set up during Gem Show that are open to the general public.
While at the Gem mall we noticed that one tent had expanded. The expansion provided room for interesting African vendors and a Tibetan booth with colorful silk scarves and beautifully crafted Tibetan Hill Tribe silver. One African booth was piled high with antique brass bells, ropes of beads, amulets and fabrics. The offerings were so massive, colorful and interesting that we could barely see the smiling owner of these treasures.
Of course, we looked forward to another international meal and found a booth with Thai food in the Gem Mall’s outdoor food court. After lunch, it was into the second building to explore more offerings and seek out amazing bargains.
Shopping Wholesale at Gem Show
You too, may be eligible for a wholesale shopping experience in Tucson. You need to have a retail license from your state. We noticed that many home beaders, making and selling necklaces, for example, at craft shows and to their friends had retail licenses allowing them to shop wholesale at the shows. That is the main requirement for entry.
It is important to know, also, that some vendors require a minimum purchase in the hundreds of dollars. But most would allow per piece purchases.
Recovering from Gem Show
We were fortunate to have a room at the beautiful Esplendor Resort in Rio Rico, just an hour south of all the Tucson hubbub. We found the resort to be an oasis of peace and calm each day. With surrounding mountain views, lovely gardens and crisp, blue pool, it was worth the drive from Tucson to be able to stay there. In Tucson, there were many area motels but the noise, we found, could be a deterrent to staying there during Gem Show.
If you watch for specials, you’ll find that Esplendor Resort, offers reasonable room rates. One evening we enjoyed the beautiful dining room and were treated to an excellent meal and attentive service. The people at the resort are so friendly. It certainly adds to the relaxing atmosphere.
Last night we sat on the dining room balcony, outside, enjoying the view of the mountains and a glass of wine. It was only the chill of the night that drove us inside as the lights of the town sparkled in the distance.
Esplendor Resort is worth the scenic drive from Tucson.
More
Road Trip to Gem Shows in Tucson
Tucson Gem Shows: Where to Stay
Tucson Gem Shows 2012 Information
More 2012 Information
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