The sun was back out today. The main event at the Tucson Convention Center opened today and we were there when the doors opened.
This is an open show and everyone is encouraged to attend. Jewelers abound as many retail customers attend just to buy jewelry.
The show is in two areas, the Convention Center and the arena that connects via a short hallway. What is unique about this show are the displays in lighted cases and the surprising things you might see right out in the open.
Wonderful gem specimens in this case.
Adventurine and Smokey Quartz from Pikes Peak.
I also like to visit at least one vendor that has the best rock slabs anywhere, but if you don’t get there first thing those slabs get picked over fast. I found a couple of Luna Agate that no one recognized and scarfed them up, as well as some nice red dinosaur bone.
I also found a pair of ammonites that were real nice.
One of the amazing things we saw was a marble carving of a woman reclining on a grand piano. This was all carved from one giant block of stone by Francisco and was named “American Woman”. It took him two and a half years and it was for sale on E-Bay for 5 million. This display and his appearance had several major sponsors.
The other neat thing was the Psittacosaurus fossil from China that was only $40,000.
There was no sign as to what this was. I think maybe a Morganite. Other IDs will be accepted.
Pictures are allowed at this show so no problem with the picture police here.
We plan on going back Sunday.
More jewels on display