#TucsonGemShow - The Fine Mineral Show At The Westward Look Resort

This one is a little bit of a drive but well worth every minute of it - and the view from the Catalina Fooothills is spectacular!!!

22nd St. Mineral & Fossil Show Promoter Building A Permanent Tucson Location

The 2015 show is going to soon be known for change and growth - it seems we are getting new announcements weekly, but none as big as the following from Lowell Carhart of Eons Expos...you are probably more familiar with him as the show promoter for the 22nd St. Mineral & Fossil Show as well as shows in New Jersey and Denver.

We've been working behind the scenes for four years with a stellar team of architects, bankers, brokers, engineers, investors, lawyers, lenders, Tucson officials, and my absolute favorite Tucson Ward Councilor to be able to finally make this announcement:  

On October 16, 2014, we officially acquired the 6.5 acre parcel of land at the corner of I-10 and 22nd Street in Tucson, Arizona for $1.6 million. (This is the site of our show) The deal is done. It could not have been accomplished without the support of my wife Miev, my sister-in-law Li, brother-in-law Cheng, my Darden Business School buddy Ramesh, family and new & old friends, and the spectacular A-Team comprised of Randy Emerson, Rob Paul, Ken Perry, Keri Silvyn, and Jim Whitehill. But all would have been for naught without Ward Councilor Regina Romero's vital support, who championed our proposal over that of our competitor who bid $138,000 higher but offered an uninspiring development plan. Our plan will let the City of Tucson boast of an iconic new 22nd Street Co-Op building that will become ground zero for the Tucson Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Showcase for decades to come. 

We plan to break ground on the stunning $12 million 22nd Street Co-Op in February 2016.  The 150,000 sq. foot edifice will be comprised of (86) 20' x 40' selling rooms on the first two floors that dealers will own outright (structured as a business condo), while the top 3rd floor will be a year-round event space.  However, come gem show time, the top floor will host the high-end Annex of the 22nd Street Mineral & Fossil Show, which will also continue in its existing 100' x 600' tent.  Therefore, dealers will soon have a choice to own their venue in Tucson's premier location, or choose between renting a booth in the high-end top floor Annex of the 22nd Street Co-Op, or in the more affordable 22nd Street Mineral & Fossil Show tent.

Upon project completion there will be space for 500 dealers.  The sales office for the 22nd Street Co-Op will open in January in Tucson. More info to come!

Kind regards,

Lowell Carhart

Eons Expos, LLLP – Partner

22nd Street Land, LLC – CEO

(804) 291-6357

Our Shows:

www.2014HolidayShow.com (Dec 5-7, 2014)

www.22ndStreetShow.com (Jan 29-Feb 15, 2015)

www.NY-NJ-Show.com (April 10-12, 2015)

www.DenverColiseumShow.com (Sept 12-20, 2015)

 Can you imagine what this will mean to vendors of larger items  - Geodes - Cathedrals - Metal Sculpture....etc.

"...dealers will soon have a choice to own their venue in Tucson's premier location, or choose between renting a booth in the high-end top floor Annex of the 22nd Street Co-Op, or in the more affordable 22nd Street Mineral & Fossil Show tent."

The the images above and the following are from the formal proposal and truly show the opportunities provided by this groundbreaking concept!  

 Info on the 2015 Tucson Show:   http://xpopress.com/22ndST-show-schedule.html
 22nd Street Show on Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Tucson22ndStreetShow
 About Eons Expos:  http://www.22ndstreetshow.com/about_eons_expo.php

#TucsonGemShow - Erica Courtney Introduces NEW Gem Division

ERICA COURTNEY, INC. LAUNCHES THE COURTNEY COLLECTION, 

A NEW DIVISION FOCUSED ON GEMSTONES

Los Angeles-based luxury jewelry company, Erica Courtney, Inc. today announced the launch of The Courtney Collection®, a new division of the company that will focus on collectible, rare and interesting gemstones. The company will also be the official authorized North American distributor of Csarite™, a rare, natural, color-change gemstone.

Erica Courtney will serve as President and Adam Graham as CEO for both divisions.

“I’ve been collecting fabulous gemstones for my clients and myself for years, so it just seemed like a natural transition to become a colored gemstone dealer,” said Erica Courtney. “I love the magic of colored gemstones, especially the few gems that exhibit a unique personality and beautiful energy.”

The Courtney Collection was recently honored with a 2014 AGTA Spectrum Cutting Edge Award, winning second place in the “Phenomenal Gemstones” category for an 88.49ct. pear shape color-change Csarite. The AGTA Spectrum Awards is considered the world’s premier jewelry and gemstone competition, consisting of a judging panel of highly esteemed experts within the jewelry industry.

The Courtney Collection will be exhibiting at the GJX Gem & Jewelry Show at booth #2206, and the AGTA GemFair at booth #1606, in Tucson, AZ, February 4-9. For more information, please visit our website at www.courtneygemcollection.com.

GJX - Rob Lowe - THE Colored Gem Dealer #TucsonGemShow

Every year I make sure to stop by Rob's booth at GJX - this last year I had a great little surprise - Rob was in a meeting and the Award Winning Gem Cutter, Stephen Kotlowski was minding the booth.

Thought I would share some photos of the fabulous gems - getting ready for the 2014 show!

My apologies to Rob - these cases were jammed full but I didn't get over to photograph them until the last day...

Robert P. Lowe Jr.
Lowe Associates - Brasil
Gemstones, Rough, Specimens
Tucson - Feb 1 - 6, 2011 - GJX booth # 205
e-mail: USA  robertplowejr (at) juno.com
e-mail: Brasil robertplowejr (at) uol.com.br

Stephen spent a few minutes showing off his award winners that were in the case...

Solid Carved Opal - this stone had tons of color in person 

Topaz and Kunzite by Stephen Kotlowski

This 276.90ct Intense Blue "Uniquely K" Pear Shape Topaz 

won Honorable mention 2010 AGTA Spectrum "Cutting Edge" Awards 

...and now onto the Gems of Rob Lowe - Rob sources his gems directly from the mines - he spends half his time in Brazil:

JCK Events To Operate The High End Jewelry Show At Starr Pass Marriott

JCK Events Expands Domestic Footprint in Tucson

JCK Events announced today that it will enter the Tucson market by transforming the B2B G.L.D.A. Tucson Show, bringing a new opportunity for buying, networking, and learning to the broader jewelry industry.  The new JCK Tucson show is held at the JW Marriot Starr Pass Resort, a 4-Diamond mountaintop retreat, and Tucson’s best, during the Tucson Jewelry Weeks.  Covering finished fine jewelry, and featuring both luxury and design areas within the show, it is a fitting addition to JCK’s portfolio and one which will augment its position as the leader in finished fine jewelry shows. 

The new JCK Tucson show will take place February 3-8, 2014.

The G.L.D.A. Show (The Gem & Lapidary Dealers Association) has been an established wholesale gem & jewelry show that focuses on finished fine jewelry, a compliment to the surrounding B2B offerings in Tucson (AGTA and GJX) that thousands of suppliers, manufacturers, and retailers take advantage of.   

“JCK Tucson will cover the finished fine jewelry segment and feature luxury and design exhibitors, which will provide a new opportunity for exhibitors within the built in audience, already visiting Tucson,” says JCK’s Yancy Weinrich.  “The JW Marriott Starr Pass provides an opulent setting and environment for both exhibiting and networking beyond the show floor – with the outdoor patios, mountainous backdrop, golf course and spa; it is the place to stay while in Tucson.”

For more information about the qualification process for exhibiting please contact John Tierney at jtierney@reedexpo.com.

About JCK:
JCK is a trusted partner connecting jewelry retailers and manufacturers/suppliers with trends, news, products, education and partners to build business. Whether attending face-to-face events, building inventory with online and onsite sourcing or obtaining authoritative news and insights from JCK, the leading industry magazine in print & online, JCK offers a suite of tools, events and information to deliver sound solutions, innovative opportunities and essential information. Mark your calendars as JCK Events presents its portfolio of upcoming buying opportunities:

−        LUXURY and Elite Enclave: May 28 - 30, 2013, by invitation only, and then continues as the events open their doors to all JCK retailers May 31- June 3, 2013 - Four Seasons, THEhotel, Mandalay Bay

−        Swiss Watch: May 31 -  June 3, 2013 - THEhotel, Mandalay Bay, Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental

−        JCK Las Vegas: May 31 - June 3, 2013 - Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino

−        LUXURY Privé New York: July 29 - 31, 2013 - New York, The Pierre Hotel, Fifth Avenue

LUXURY Privé Panama: August 26 - 28, 2013 - Panama City, Panama, Westin Playa Bonita

What Would Winning An AGTA Spectrum Award Mean To You?

If you get a moment go over to YouTube and watch the new videos from the AGTA...they are interviewing winners of the Spectrum Award. 

They each answer Two questions...

1. Tell us about your winning entry.

2. What did winning an AGTA Spectrum Award mean to your business?

This particular video features Ashleigh Branstetter who entered an elegant pair of Tahitian Pearl and Sapphire Cufflinks (above) and she won a Manufacturing Honors Award in the Men's Wear Category.

So - Ashleigh, what does winning a Spectrum Award mean to your business?

Vendor Spotlight: Joe Jelks of Horizon Mineral Custom Lapidary

I will be posting a Vendor Spotlight every Wednesday. In the spirit of #WordlessWednesday - it will include only the basics - Caption and Contact Information...Enjoy!


Joe Jelks of Horizon Mineral Custom Lapidary

Probably the hottest find in Tucson - this Bumble Bee Jasper was a HIT!

Rutlated Quartz Cabs and Caps on Onyx & Lapis

Who knew that schist could be so cool!

Joe Jelks 
Horizon Minerals Custom Lapidary
302.644.3333 
fax 302.644.2128
Arizona Mineral & Fossil Show
Artists Gallery (upstairs from the Lobby)
Hotel Tucson City Center

GIA Tucson: GIA Alumni Awarded Global Honors

GIA Alumni Receive Global Honors

Leadership and achievement awards

Gail Brett Levine,
recipient of the 2012 GIA Int'l Leadership Award.
Image courtesy of Levine.

CARLSBAD, CA. – Alumni of GIA (Gemological Institute of America) were recognized for their chapter contributions during the annual GIA Alumni Association dinner, auction and dance party held on Feb. 3 at the Tucson Gem Show. Gail Brett Levine, Graduate Gemologist, of New York received the 2012 International Leadership Award; and Lanis Mosher, Accredited Jewelry Professional, of Ontario received the 2012 International Achievement Award.

The GIA Global Alumni Awards recognize members who exhibit leadership, demonstrate service to the gem and jewelry industry, and actively support the association’s growth through continuing education and innovative programs.

Lanis Mosher, recipient of the
2012 GIA Int'l Achievement Award.
Image courtesy of Mosher.

Levine, an independent personal property appraiser, has been in the jewelry trade for 40 years and an officer in the Manhattan Chapter since the inception of the GIA Alumni Association in 1982. “I am proud that the Manhattan Chapter is one of the gemstones in the GIA ‘Tiara of Chapters,’” she said. “I want to express my gratitude to my fellow officers and everyone I’ve worked with to make it a success.”

Mosher, a retailer for more than 12 years, has rarely missed an event since the Ontario Chapter was founded two years ago. “My best advice is to stay involved in your chapter as you never know what gems you will meet,” she said. “I plan to return to Tucson next year to reconnect with fellow alumni. I am refreshed and excited about where to take my career next and what additional GIA courses I want to enroll in.”

“The Institute commends Gail and Lanis for their continued dedication to the association,” said Kate Donovan, GIA Alumni Relations Manager. “The awards program was created to foster and inspire the alumni network, which includes 60 chapters worldwide. We thank these individuals for their enthusiasm and support of the organization.”

A call for 2013 nominations will be distributed to all association members in July 2012. To ensure receipt of the nomination form, GIA Alumni can register here.

About GIA

An independent nonprofit organization, GIA (Gemological Institute of America), established in 1931, is recognized as the world’s foremost authority in gemology. GIA invented the famous 4Cs of Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat Weight in the early 1950s and in 1953, created the International Diamond Grading System™ which, today, is recognized by virtually every professional jeweler in the world.

Through research, education, gemological laboratory services, and instrument development, the Institute is dedicated to ensuring the public trust in gems and jewelry by upholding the highest standards of integrity, academics, science, and professionalism. Visit www.gia.edu.

1820 Oracle Wholesale Show - #TucsonGemShow

This is a fairly small show that packs a BIG punch!


With only 13 vendors you would think we could pop in and out of this show - so didn't happen!   We went in for a specific item and stayed the entire morning digging through specimen and rock boxes.  Check it out it is open through the weekend!


We went in for these great Moon Rock display boxes from Veronica Matthews Minerals - Margo loves them for Silent Auction items for her Gem & Mineral Club:

 1820 Oracle Mineral and Fossil Co-op

Had the BEST time chatting with Stuart and Mandy of Arcane Artifacts!

Can you believe the stunning carved Smoky Quartz!

This Chrysacolla was STUNNING and LARGE!

Veronica Matthews Minerals
AKA Howard Merk Minerals 
(he is at the AZ Min & Fossil Show at the Inn Suites)

 

The packaging on these is brilliant and 100% Howard's doing...
they are labeled with a Mineralogist's detail

Sweet Halite crystals appealed to the Cali Girl in me  ;-p

We picked up some really fun pieces from Red Metal Minerals and Ausrox also!!!

THEFT ALERT! SUNSTONE DEALER ROBBED AT #TucsonGemShow

DO NOT BUY SUNSTONE FROM STREET VENDORS WITH OUT SHOW CREDENTIALS!!!


A SUNSTONE DEALER HAD THE FOLLOWING INVENTORY STOLEN FROM HIS HOTEL PARKING LOT!!!

PHOTO FOR EXAMPLE ONLY
...these belong to another dealer 

• 2000 faceted Sunstones in multiple size and color range
• 
  
• 15 strands of Sunstone beads
• 
  
• 150 pair Sunstone earrings 
• 
  
• 150 Sunstone pendants 
• 
  
• 150 Sunstone rings
• 
  
• 6lb of rough Sunstone in a range of colors

Several of these pieces were carved or custom faceted and are easily identified - they will be difficult to move....please just contact someone and return the entire lot!


POLICE CASE #1202070122


POLICE RECOMMEND - IF YOU SEE ANYONE SELLING OUTSIDE SHOWS OR IF YOU ARE A DEALER AND SOMEONE APPROACHES YOU - CALL 911


IF YOU KNOW SOMEONE LOCALLY THAT IS BRAGGING OR TALKING ABOUT THIS PLEASE LET SOMEONE KNOW!!!

Tucson 2012: Vendors, Vendors, Vendors...

                            

"One new piece that I am exceptionally excited about is the Olive branch bib necklace. As beautiful as it looks in pictures, it's even more stunning around the neck. This bold statement piece effortlessly fills in the neckline."                         Aaron Henry

Gene McDevitt

McDevitt Opal Mining

http://koroit.com/

GJX Gem & Jewelry Show - Booth 105

198 S. Granada

January 31 - February 5, 2012
Hours: Jan. 31 - Feb. 4, 10am-6pm; 
Feb. 5*, 10:00am to 4:00pm.
*No buyers admitted after 3pm on Feb. 6. 

We are so excited to be bringing you 100+ classes this year at Tucson Electric Park (TEP) this January 28-February 12, 2012. We have pulled together a very impressive international team of instructors to bring you the largest selection of classes available in Tucson.

The Cortez Pearl @ Tucson

 GJX Show in the tent - Booth #508

(across from the Tucson Convention Center)

"This year we have a couple of things to show our visitors, including a magnificent multi-colored Cortez Pearl necklace: the first one for the year 2012. This particular necklace (code 2012-A) was on the designing table since 2009 and our associate Manuel Nava found the necessary pearls to finalize it just this new year. Although it does not contain any pearls from this year’s harvest, we decided to give it this year’s blessings.

We will also have our usual assortment of loose Cortez Cultured Pearls, Mabe Pearls (including some blisters) and some Silver Jewelry items. So, come on over and check out our unique pearls, learn how difficult it is to grow these Fair Trade beauties and get all the information straight from the oyster’s mouth: we’ll be happy to share a moment with you. "

High Desert Gems & Minerals is a gemstone mining company. We own mines in Oregon, Nevada, and California, including the famous Himalaya Tourmaline Mine near San Diego, CA and Spectrum Sunstone Mines near Plush, OR. Find out about our NEW SUNSTONE DEPOSIT at Spectrum Mine! Our other gemstone mines include Variscite, Nevada Turquoise, Opal, Mt. Airy Blue Chalcedony TM, Namibian Blue Chalcedony, Lavender Chalcedony, Purple Chalcedony, Smoky Quartz and Amethyst scepters, Fire Agate, Vesuvianite, and Gold.  

Jan 28th - Feb 9th: Pueblo Gem & Mineral Show The Riverpark Inn 350 South Freeway, Tucson, AZ 85745. Room 109. www.pueblogemshow.com

February 9th - 12th:  58th Annual Tucson Gem & Mineral Society Gem Show “Minerals of Arizona” theme. Convention Center, Tucson, AZ www.tgms.org

GEMS IN GEMS - Marco Campos Venuti, PhD

January 28 to February 9:  Pueblo Gem & Mineral Show (Riverpark Inn) in Room 113. 

January 31 to February 5:  We will have also a booth 917 – main tent in the GJX Show 

Please come inside in the room and visit us at the GJX booth 917. 

Marco says "We will be glad to drink a beer with you (please don’t forget to bring the beer, because we don’t have a fridge) talking about the many new stones we have and making some business."

Gems in Gems offers what is probably the widest selection of Quartz with "Stuff" in it that you are likely to see!  Quartz with Emerald Crystals -  Quartz with celsian and ankangite, Quartz with anatase, Quartz with rutile and dolomite, Quartz with euhedral pyrite, Quartz with tourmaline, Quartz with actinolite,  Green quartz with hedembergite from Greece, 

“Paraiba” quartz (the famous quartz with gilalite inclusions),   “Leopard” aguamarine,
Madammolite (iridescent ammonite from Madagascar, published in the last issue of Gems and gemology) to list just a few.
Ruby slices from Mozambique,
Rare gemstones, as hackmanite, amblygonite, petalite, sphalerite, inesite, chrysoberyl, sphene, leucite, ametrine, yellow smithsonite, blue and Ethiopian opal, cat’s eye aguamarine and tourmaline and many more.