Life is funny. In 1999, I decided to go on vacation. As I worked for an insectary, the only time I could travel was during the winter months. I love cold weather so that was no hardship, but my partner hates winter so we needed to pick a warm climate. Not wanting to go to […]
It’s that time of year where excitement fills the air for us. Tucson Gem and Mineral shows are just around the corner – our favorite time of year! We will have the opportunity to see incredible sites and sounds, and re-connect with old friends. Dealers and miners come from all over the world, bringing their […]
Day 2 After a hearty breakfast, we queued early with other buyers awaiting the opening of an international show, which features gemstones, cut gems, beads and finished jewelry. Security is very high; tension mounts as people jostle for position. Prior to our arrival, there was a six vehicle accident right at the show’s entrance as […]
Day 1 Today, as usual on our first day, is dedicated to re-establishing connections and looking around to see what is new. It is always great to reconnect with friends from around the world! On the way to The Strip, we noted and followed signs to a small, unadvertised rock show. Though we were early, […]
Day 6 This morning we returned to the Madagascar minerals showroom to pick up our order. As we were chatting with the staff, the owner arrived with a fresh shipment of Ocean Jasper and Polychrome hearts, freeforms and spheres. We were fortunate to hand select these beauties. Though we spent more than expect, it was […]
Day 5 Tucson’s weather has turned; it is cool and overcast, with a prediction of morning rains. Regardless, we’re heading to a wholesale show to replenish our stocks. After registering as buyers, we’re in line with hundreds of others waiting for the show to start when the promised rains arrive. Cold water snaking down our […]
Day 4 Today our focus is on finding the elusive Bolivian Amethyst points. Though we have seen reasonably-priced Brazilian Amethyst points, their color is not as intense as those from the Anahi mine. We’re going to explore in a venue which is the premier site for collectors and high-end dealers. As we stroll through the […]
Day 3 Tucson’s weather is fantastic; perfect for hiking around town. The search for the Bolivian Amethyst and Watermelon Tourmaline continues as we travel down to the ‘Strip’, original site of the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show. In this area of town, fossils are prominent. The reconstruction of these skeletal remains is museum-quality. Children and […]
Day 2 We are on a mission today! In addition to our own needs, we have specific requests to fulfill so have set out to find Vivianite from Australia, Watermelon Tourmaline, and natural Amethyst points from the Anahi mine in Bolivia. Before we can focus on these, however, the Malachite room beckons! We are coming […]
Day 1 Our first day in Tucson was spent orienting ourselves and touching base with friends. New and exciting material will be spotlight through this blog and Facebook page. Metaphysical tools, including 7-chakra sterling silver pendants, chakra wands and pyramids, and Reiki chakra hearts sets (pictured on our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/rocknglass) will be in Gainesville soon. […]