Tucson gem and mineral showcase is off and running

The Tucson Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Showcase got underway this week at dozens of locations across the city, in advance of the Tucson Gem & Mineral Show, that will be held February 13-16 in the convention center.  The latter is organized by the Tucson Gem and Mineral Society.

The theme for the big show this year is "60 Years of Diamond, Gems, Silver, and Gold."

The other 45 or so shows are independent venues that have grown over the years to make the next two weeks the biggest such event in the world.    Vendors are still setting up in some locales and some shows like that at Westward Look Resort, run for a limited time.    [Right, dealers were unpacking earlier this week at the Days Inn Hotel just a block from AZGS in downtown Tucson]