Tucson's Year-Round Mineral Offerings

The Tucson Gem & Mineral Show is the hub of mineral-related activities at the beginning of each year.

- BOB JONES

However, as ancillary shows have grown over the years, it got to be a real problem for buyers who had to drive all over the city to visit dealers. Collectors simply could not stay in the city for days on end as other shows opened and closed on different dates. The feeling grew among collectors that monies spent for lodgings, food and such over a protracted period took away from the collector's purchasing powers. Some began limiting their time in Tucson to save money that could be spent on specimens.

As the shows in Tucson continue to mature and business potentials adjust, it is only natural changes happen including the consolidation of dealers who specialize in a given area of collecting. Recognizing this, some promoters are adjusting.

MINERAL CITY