Inside the 2026 Tucson Gem Show: Rare Finds and Sourcing the Season’s

Inside the 2026 Tucson Gem Show: Rare Finds and Sourcing the Season’s Best

We have touched down in Arizona for the Tucson Gem, Mineral & Fossil Showcase, and it is every bit as spectacular as promised. For those who haven't been, it’s not just one event, it’s a massive collection of shows that transforms the entire city into a global hub for precious gemstones and luxury jewelry design.

The Pueblo Gem & Mineral Show: Boutique Sourcing

One of my favourite stops is the Pueblo Show. It’s a perfect example of Tucson’s unique charm: a motel completely converted into a sprawling gem boutique. Imagine walking into a standard motel room, but instead of a bed, the space is filled with exhibitors and high-end displays. It’s bizarre, intimate, and the best place to find rare mineral specimens in an unexpected setting.

Our first visit was to my long-time friend and trusted supplier, Jay.

He specialises in ethically sourced gemstones from East Africa. His current collection is breathtaking, we’re talking denim steel blue spinels and berry juicy rhodolite garnets.

AGTA GemFair: The Heart of the Colored Stone Trade

Next, we headed to the AGTA GemFair (American Gem Trade Association). This is a trade-only jewelry show, and the scale is staggering.

I came with a very specific mission: finding a particular custom gemstone cut. I’m thrilled to report that I hit the jackpot with one of my favourite suppliers. I found a parcel of seafoam tourmalines in a unique, geometric cut that I simply couldn't leave behind. They are officially coming home with me to be set into new commissions!

2026 Gemstone Trends: What’s on the Bench?

Yesterday was all about sourcing for our upcoming bespoke jewelry commissions. If you’re curious about what’s trending in the world of custom engagement rings and fine jewelry, here is a peek at our haul:

Lavender Sapphires & Malaya Garnets: We’ve seen a massive surge in requests for bluish-purple hues. A large, vibrant sapphire we found perfectly fits that brief.
Unheated Tanzanite: While heat treatment is industry standard, natural unheated tanzanite holds a special place in my heart. These examples have a nostalgic, mystic quality that is incredibly rare and sought after by collectors.
Aquamarines & Hazy Lavender Quartz: Aquamarine jewelry is having a major moment right now. After a long hunt, I found some stunningly clear pieces, along with rare hazy lavender quartz sourced directly from Brazil.
Mint & Mali Garnets: These bright, zesty greens are destined for our signature T-bar necklaces and gold chain rings.

Are you dreaming of a specific gemstone for your next piece? Contact us at info@thepiecelondon.com to discuss a custom commission while I still have these Tucson treasures in hand!