Franklin NC Gem Show
The Franklin NC Gem Show is the Southeast's premier wholesale gem and mineral marketplace, held twice yearly in Franklin, North Carolina - known as the "Gem Capital of the World." Organized by GLW Shows, this biannual event brings together over 2,800 exhibitors and buyers from across the globe for the largest wholesale gem trading event in the Appalachian region.
Next Franklin NC Gem Show Dates:
Become a GLW Shows Exhibitor
Showcase your gems, minerals, and jewelry to thousands of qualified buyers at America’s premier wholesale gem shows. Apply today to secure your space.
Attend Shows & Buy Wholesale
Gain access to wholesale pricing, trusted exhibitors, and one-of-a-kind finds. Register now to experience the GLW advantage at our upcoming shows.
Quick Links for the Franklin Gem Show
Active & Upcoming Shows
Past Shows
The Complete Guide to the Franklin NC Gem Show
This comprehensive guide serves as your central hub for everything related to Franklin NC gem shows.
Explore the Franklin NC GLW Gem Show Floorplan
Our interactive floorplan map is designed to help you easily navigate the Franklin Gem Show. Discover where each exhibitor is located, find essential amenities, and plan your visit efficiently. Whether you're a first-time attendee or a seasoned gem enthusiast, this map is your key to a successful experience.
Discover the Franklin NC Gem Show: Your Ultimate Guide to Gemstone Exploration
Navigate Franklin's Gem Shows with Expert Tips and Insider Knowledge
Our comprehensive guide equips you with everything you need for a successful experience.
Plan Your Visit: Venues, Transportation, and Accommodation Insights
Find the best venues and travel tips to enhance your gem show experience.
Wholesale Access: Requirements and Benefits for Buyers and Exhibitors
Understand the requirements for wholesale access to maximize your gem show opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning & Logistics
July Franklin is a four day show designed to give buyers, sellers, and industry professionals ample time to explore, connect, and conduct business. While it is possible to see highlights in a single day, most serious buyers attend all four days to ensure they don’t miss opportunities, new product launches, or important industry connections.
Yes. July Franklin is traditionally a Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday show scheduled the last full weekend of July; the exact dates shift slightly each year. We strongly recommend confirming the official schedule for the current year before booking flights, hotels, or other travel arrangements. Updated dates are always available on the July Franklin Show page.
For the best experience, plan to arrive at the opening of the show and stay through the closing of the fourth day. This approach ensures you have time to see all exhibitors and revisit booths or products of interest without feeling rushed.
Many exhibitors provide in house shipping options for your convenience. In addition, most venues are located near UPS, FedEx, and other shipping providers for larger or more specialized shipments. Because each exhibitor sets their own policies, please confirm shipping details, costs, and insurance coverage directly with the exhibitor at the time of purchase.
Show Access & Experience
No. GLW Shows are open exclusively to qualified members of the trade. Admission requires proof of a business license, tax certificate, or sales/use permit in a gem, jewelry, or related industry. These requirements are strictly enforced to maintain the integrity of the wholesale environment. Retail customers are encouraged to attend public gem shows, which are open to all visitors and allow purchases without documentation.
What are the different types of shows?
- Educational Shows – Feature museum quality displays, expert presentations, and opportunities to expand industry knowledge. These events are designed more for learning than for purchasing.
- Wholesale Shows (GLW Shows) – Exclusively for qualified trade professionals, offering competitive pricing, bulk purchasing, and business to business networking opportunities.
- Public Shows – Open to all visitors, these events feature retail shopping, demonstrations, and a wide range of products available for immediate purchase.
Children are not prohibited; however, GLW Shows are professional business to business events and are not designed with children in mind. For safety and practicality, strollers are strongly discouraged. Young professionals actively involved in the gem and jewelry trade are welcome and encouraged to participate. Parents should consider whether the environment is suitable before bringing children to the show floor.
Many exhibitors offer appraisal services for high value or investment grade items. It is advisable to request documentation at the time of purchase and to keep all receipts, certificates, or appraisals for your records. Please refer to the Exhibitor Listing for details on which vendors provide appraisal or certification services during the show.
Still have questions?
Join Us as an Exhibitor
Showcase your unique gemstones and connect with buyers and other exhibitors.
Attend the Show
Get insider tips for navigating Franklin NC's gem shows, from venues to accommodations and more.
Uncover the Best of Franklin NC Gem Shows
Navigate the vibrant world of Franklin NC's gem shows with ease. Our comprehensive guide equips you with essential tips and insights to maximize your experience.
Comprehensive Venue and Transportation Information
Find detailed information on venues and transport options.
Accommodations for Every Budget and Preference
Discover a range of lodging options near the shows.
Wholesale Access Requirements Made Simple
Understand the criteria to gain wholesale access.
Restaurants
Explore the best dining options in Franklin NC.
A family-friendly restaurant offering a diverse menu of homestyle dishes, renowned for having one of the area's largest gluten-free selections.
Modern Indian restaurant offering innovative takes on traditional dishes with bold, authentic flavors.
A family-owned restaurant renowned for its wide selection of flavorful chicken wings, offering a casual and inviting dining experience.
Experience upscale New England and continental cuisine in a historic tavern setting, featuring classic dishes like Baked Stuffed Shrimp and Old Fashioned Chicken Pot Pie.
Accommodations
Find the perfect stay during the Franklin NC Gem Show.
Budget-friendly option near gem show.
Closest hotel to Gem Mall and Holidome.
Modern Marriott hotel near venue.
Affordable hotel with convenient location.
Ready to Experience GLW Shows' Professional Advantage?
Exhibitor Opportunities
Secure premium booth space at GLW Shows' Franklin NC venues
Wholesale Access
Register for credential verification and expedited show entry
Market Intelligence
Connect with our team for insider tips and vendor recommendations
Group Benefits
Explore volume discounts for multi-buyer delegations
Year-Round Partnership
Discuss opportunities beyond Franklin season
Contact GLW Shows today to secure your competitive advantage in Franklin NC's professional gem marketplace. Join thousands of successful buyers who trust our expertise for their annual sourcing success.
