Look Book

54 | thejewelr ybook.com Tu c s o n T i p s Every year in late January, rock hounds and treasure hunters near and far make the pilgrimage to southern Arizona for a gemological and geological wonderland fi lled with gems, minerals, crystals, fossils, jewelry, and everything else from this world and others – if you include meteorites. Welcome to the Tucson Gem Show, one of the world's largest gem and mineral shows. For decades, Tucson has graciously hosted this legendary rock-fest of tents and tables overfl owing with natural wonders in over 45 shows throughout the city. It must be seen to be believed. Yours truly has been Tucson-ing it for over 25 years and I still bubble over with the excitement of a kid on Christmas Day when I walk into the fi rst show. I've seen some memorable things over the years, but it's still hard to beat the Volkswagen Beetle automo- bile replete with a large meteorite that crashed into it, which was for sale by the way. And I'm still taken aback by roadside hotel rooms devoid of ALL furniture and turned into individual storefronts. Roaming those halls is an experience bordering on the surreal with guest room a er guest room of crystals, carvings, fossils, and thousands of things I can't think of or name. Here are a few nuggets from a tried and true veteran for tackling Tucson. Treasure Map – A little research beforehand will save oodles of time. Determine what piques your interest and formulate a plan of attack. Since the sheer size and diversity of the show can be overwhelming, mapping out spots will optimize and organize the time you have. Rock and Roll – If you don't rent a car, the Gem Show provides a network of free shuttles with colored-themed route names that will whisk you to and from the major shows with connections to others. Some even stop at major hotels. Other venues are walkable or reachable by a short ride-share journey, and the SunLink Streetcar also provides a convenient ride around downtown. Banter and Bargain – Don't be afraid to haggle or negotiate prices within reason. You'll discover that some vendors are open to negotiation, but it's all part of the experience. Also, shop around. Prices for that gorgeous piece of amethyst for your coff ee table will vary from show to show. Lessons & Sessions – Take advantage of all the educational opportunities. Vendors and organizations off er workshops, lectures, and demonstrations. It's also a great way to make new connections and meet fellow enthusiasts. Dino-mite Logistics– Whether meandering around fossils or perusing the tents parallel to I-10, your best friend is a comfortable pair of shoes. Also, layer up because there can be a signifi cant swing in the temperature between high noon and sunset. I discovered early on that desert is not synonymous with warmth. Also, bring a heavy-duty tote. Not only can it hold water and snacks, but it will come in handy for that ammonite fossil you never knew you needed. A Stone's row – ough it's growing continuously, Tucson has managed to keep a cool, authentic vibe. Immerse yourself into all that Arizona's second-largest city has to off er. Revel in the saguaro-peppered Sonoran Desert vistas, the vibrant Mexican-American culture, and the burgeoning food scene. Explore the various neighborhoods. ere are also beautiful parks, mountains, and museums. And a visit to the Mt. Lemmon SkyCenter is a must. Soak It In – Remember, the Tucson Gem Show is about the EXPERIENCE. From the carpeted gem halls to the dusty piles of agate, it's a rocking good time. I especially enjoy catching up with friends and acquaintances from all over planet Earth. And then there are those one-of-kind-experiences, like the time I saw a legit roadrunner, but that's a Tucson tale for another day. By happenstance – or as it later proed to be, kismet – my rst job out of college was in the art department of Krementz & Co., a large, ne jewelry manufacturer, doing ads, catalogues, copywriting, and large format photography. Flash forward 25 years, I was fully immersed in our glittering industry, and as an extra added bonus, a childhood fascination for gemstones became a signi cant facet of my responsibilities. When Krementz closed in 2013, I was fortunate to have found a second home at Suna Bros. doing exactly the same thing: all things creative and sparkling. Dazzle Dazzle Dazzle Dazzle by Danielle Barber Winter 2024 | Dazzle

• Cover