We’re all familiar with Arizona’s rich mining history, but it isn’t often that the fruits of its labor are displayed for all to see. That’s exactly what the Tucson Gem, Mineral, & Fossil Show in Tucson offers, in addition to many other exhibits from museums around the world.

Running from February 13 through 16, the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show is the largest, oldest, and most prestigious event of its kind in the world.

Facebook/Tucson Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. It has enjoyed international stature since the 1970s and was the first mineral exhibition to unite hobbyists and professionals under one roof.

Exhibits offer a rare glimpse into private collections that typically remain locked up in museums.

Facebook/Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, Inc. Popular examples from previous shows include The Logan Sapphire, Star of Asia, and Ausrox Gold Nugget.

You’ll also learn plenty about mining, an integral part of Arizona history.

Facebook/Tucson Gem & Mineral Society, Inc. Get an up-close look at extractions that don’t exist anywhere else but beneath our very own state.

This is Brazilian Elbaite; its color scheme reminiscent of a watery dreamscape.

Facebook/Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, Inc. It looks even more magical firsthand.

Several exhibits are hands-on, letting guests touch and feel minerals of all different colors, textures, and sizes.

Facebook/Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, Inc. There are also two separate opportunities for kids to get involved, including an interactive earth science experiment run by University of Arizona students.

Since the show starts right before Valentine’s Day, there’ll still be time to pick up something sparkly for that special someone.

Facebook/Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, Inc. Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and all sorts of other jewelry pieces are studded with the most vibrant gemstones around.

Reading material, lectures, and seminars offer valuable information about all things gems and minerals.

Facebook/Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, Inc. Leave the show having feasted with both your eyes and also your brain on these awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Visit the show’s website or Facebook page to learn more.

Facebook/Tucson Gem & Mineral Society, Inc.

It has enjoyed international stature since the 1970s and was the first mineral exhibition to unite hobbyists and professionals under one roof.

Facebook/Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, Inc.

Popular examples from previous shows include The Logan Sapphire, Star of Asia, and Ausrox Gold Nugget.

Facebook/Tucson Gem & Mineral Society, Inc.

Get an up-close look at extractions that don’t exist anywhere else but beneath our very own state.

It looks even more magical firsthand.

There are also two separate opportunities for kids to get involved, including an interactive earth science experiment run by University of Arizona students.

Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and all sorts of other jewelry pieces are studded with the most vibrant gemstones around.

Facebook/Tucson Gem and Mineral Society, Inc.

Leave the show having feasted with both your eyes and also your brain on these awe-inspiring natural wonders.

Have you ever been to the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show? If so, did you see anything particularly dazzling? Let us know all about the experience.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.

Address: Tucson, AZ, USA