Tucson Gem Show 2011 : A Journey into American Gemstones

My first trip to Tucson took place in 2011, and it remains a vivid memory. At the time, I was visiting more as a tourist than a serious buyer. Like many first-time visitors, I was completely overwhelmed by the sheer scale of the Tucson Gem Show—an extraordinary annual event held in Arizona.

Beyond the show, I explored the surrounding areas, including Tombstone, the Arizona-Sonora Desert Museum, and even a ski resort in the Catalina Mountains. Under bright desert skies, I experienced some truly breathtaking landscapes.

That first trip was unforgettable. It was also where I discovered my first Biggs jasper—an encounter that sparked a lasting passion for American gemstones. In many ways, it was an initiation into the world of North American gems.

Death tree under AZ sun

red trucks

tombstone sign

watch for rocks sign

business center tucson and palm trees

big white quartz

Fox theater Tucson

iron art in tucson

Poster of AGTA fair at convention center