Tucson Gem Show
Join us for the Tucson Gem Show, where gem enthusiasts and industry professionals converge to explore a dazzling array of gemstones, minerals, and jewelry. Get insider tips and essential information to navigate this vibrant event with ease.
Next Tucson Gem Show Dates:
GLWshows Tucson Holidome 2026 - wholesale beads, jewelry and lapidary. Jan 31-Feb 8, 2026.
GLWshows Tucson Gem Mall 2026 - Americas largest wholesale gem show. Jan 31-Feb 6, 2026. 275+ exhibitors.
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 Tucson Gem Show
Active & Upcoming Shows
Past Shows
The Complete Guide to the Tucson Gem Show
Navigate 50+ annual gem shows, 4,000 vendors, and $131 million in economic activity with insider expertise from GLW Shows – your trusted wholesale trade show partner for 50+ years.
2025 Season Statistics:
Direct economic impact
Vendors across venues
Individual Shows
(typically late January through mid-February)
Annual visitors from 40+ countries
wholesale-only venues requiring business credentials
From School Cafeteria to Global Phenomenon
Understanding Tucson's gem show evolution builds credibility and context for today's massive marketplace:
1955
First Tucson Gem Show held at Helen Keeling Elementary School cafeteria with 1,500 visitors and 6 dealers
1956
Unexpected popularity forces move to Pima County Fairgrounds Quonset hut
1961
Smithsonian Institution's participation brings national prestige and international recognition
1972
GLW Shows begins Tucson participation, bringing wholesale trade show expertise, opening the Tucson Holidome Gem Show.
1973
Move to Tucson Community Center enables major expansion and professional facilities.
1990
Tucson Convention Center opening establishes permanent show home.
2000s
Visitor counts exceed 50,000 annually, driving citywide infrastructure development
2010s
Digital age brings online registration, mobile apps, and social media integration
2019
Economic impact reaches record $131.4 million in direct regional spending
Present
GLW Shows' Holidome Gem Show maintains a leadership position annual events across the US and creating the largest US-based Gem Show Circuit, bringing access to all wholesale buyers!
Explore the GLW Tucson Gem Show Floorplan
Our interactive floorplan map is designed to help you easily navigate the Tucson 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 Tucson Gem Show: Your Ultimate Guide to Gemstone Exploration
Navigate Tucson'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.
Image Gallery
Explore stunning visuals from the Tucson Gem Show.
Frequently Asked Questions
Planning & Logistics
The Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase is a world-famous event spanning more than two weeks and featuring over 40 individual shows throughout the city. With its extraordinary range—from public exhibitions to exclusive wholesale venues—planning ahead is essential to make the most of your visit.
Show durations vary widely. Some last only three to four days, while others extend across the full two-week period. The GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall remain open for nine consecutive days, making them ideal anchors for your schedule.
For most attendees, we recommend a 5–7 day stay in Tucson to enjoy a well-rounded experience:
- 2 days exploring the large public shows, featuring retail vendors, educational exhibits, and family-friendly attractions.
- 2–3 days at wholesale venues, ideal for dealers and buyers seeking inventory, networking, and exclusive merchandise.
- 1–2 days for specialized shows, private appointments, and niche categories such as fossils, meteorites, or designer jewelry.
Collectors and serious buyers often stay 10–14 days, allowing for repeat visits to key venues, private appointments, workshops, and networking events.
The GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall are among Tucson’s most prominent and dynamic show locations. Together, they host hundreds of international vendors and attract thousands of buyers.
To fully experience both venues, plan for at least two full days of exploration. These locations serve as central hubs for wholesale buyers and professionals, featuring four major pavilions:
- GLW Holidome Pavilion
- GLW Holidome Ballroom & Market
- GLW Gem Mall Cactus Pavilion
- GLW Gem Mall Fiesta Pavilion
Parking
Each venue offers ample on-site parking for registered wholesale attendees, golf cart shuttle service, and designated loading areas, making it easy to transport merchandise purchases without the stress of off-site parking or long commutes.
Valet Service
For enhanced convenience, valet parking is available for wholesale attendees at both the GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall locations. This service is especially useful during peak attendance periods and for buyers managing large or heavy purchases.
Getting Around Tucson: Shuttle Services
Navigating Tucson during gem show season is easy thanks to a comprehensive network of complimentary shuttle services operated by multiple show promoters.
These continuous shuttle routes connect major show venues, parking areas, and hotels across the city. Shuttle maps and schedules are available online, at hotel concierge desks, and at show entrances. The Tucson airport also has shuttle schedules located in the baggage claim area.
Using the shuttle system reduces parking challenges, saves time, and ensures a smooth, efficient experience throughout your stay.
Yes. While the Tucson Gem Show season typically runs from late January through mid-February, exact dates change annually. Always verify current-year schedules and confirm venue locations before booking travel and accommodations.
For the best experience plan to arrive the opening weekend of the GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall shows. This approach ensures buyers have early access to the best inventory and a relaxed networking experience.
The GLW Shows partner with professional logistics and packing services to support both attendees and exhibitors. A shipping and receiving area is conveniently located in the GLW Holidome Pavilion.
Shipping costs vary depending on volume and destination. For high-value specimens, we recommend declared-value insurance for added protection.
Some vendors also provide in-house or partner shipping options, allowing for secure and convenient transport of merchandise.
Show Access & Experience
No - GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall 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.
- Wholesaled 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.
Educational shows (Main Show) focus on museum-quality displays and learning. Wholesale venues (GLW Shows, AGTA) target trade professionals - these are the major shows in the Tucson Area. Public shows welcome all visitors. Each serves distinct market segments.
Children are not prohibited; however, GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall 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.
In Summary
The GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall shows offer a seamless, buyer-focused experience that blends accessibility, scale, and convenience. As two of the signature destinations within the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase, these venues create a vibrant and efficient setting for discovering exceptional gems, minerals, jewelry, and related products from around the globe.
Whether you’re a wholesale buyer, established dealer, or industry professional, the GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall shows are essential stops on your Tucson itinerary. Featuring hundreds of exhibitors, ample parking, comprehensive on-site services, and thoughtfully designed layouts for easy navigation and maximum exposure, the GLW Holidome and GLW Gem Mall shows provide an unparalleled opportunity to explore trends, connect with suppliers, and build lasting business relationships at the heart of the international gem community.
Still have questions?
Join Us as an Exhibitor
Showcase your unique gemstones and connect with buyers at the Tucson Gem Show.
Attend the Show
Get insider tips for navigating Tucson's gem shows, from venues to accommodations and more.
Uncover the Best of Tucson Gem Shows
Navigate the vibrant world of Tucson'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 Tucson.
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 Tucson Gem Show.
Modern Hilton with restaurant and pool.
All-suite hotel with full kitchens.
Modern suites near shopping and dining.
Full-service Sheraton near airport.
Ready to Experience Tucson's Professional Advantage?
Exhibitor Opportunities
Secure premium booth space at GLW Shows' Tucson 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 Tucson season
Contact GLW Shows today to secure your competitive advantage in Tucson's professional gem marketplace. Join thousands of successful buyers who trust our expertise for their annual sourcing success.
