If you're a crystal lover, rockhound, or gemstone business owner, attending gem and mineral shows is one of the best ways to source unique stones, connect with suppliers, and stay ahead of trends. These shows range from massive international expos to local community events, offering everything from raw minerals to high-end jewelry.
This list is the most comprehensive database of gem and mineral shows across the United States and Canada, categorized by state and province. Whether you're looking for wholesale deals, rare specimens, or just want to experience the energy of the crystal market in person, this guide has you covered.
Each event includes key details like location, dates, estimated size, website links, and a quick vibe check to help you find the best shows for your needs.
Canada
Alberta
| Event Name | Location (City, Province, Country) | Dates | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Medicine Hat Rock N’ Gem Show | Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada | Feb 28 – Mar 2, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Medicine Hat | Medium | Casual retail show, family-friendly |
| Lethbridge Rock N’ Gem Show | Lethbridge, Alberta, Canada | Mar 21 – 23, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Lethbridge | Medium | Casual retail, gem & fossil vendors |
| Edmonton Rock N’ Gem Show (15th Annual) | Edmonton, Alberta, Canada | Jul 12 – 14, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date) | Silver Cove Edmonton | Large | Large public show, varied dealers, family-friendly |
| Calgary Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Jewellery Show | Calgary, Alberta, Canada | July 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date) | Calgary Gem Show | Large | Major regional show, mix of retail/wholesale, all-ages |
| Red Deer Rock N’ Gem Show | Red Deer, Alberta, Canada | Feb 19 – 22, 2026 (scheduled) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Red Deer | Medium | Regional show, informal, rockhound-focused |
Alberta hosts several “Rock N’ Gem” shows run by Silver Cove (CanGems) and other promoters, which are multi-day retail events drawing local and regional attendees. (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule)
British Columbia
| Event Name | Location (City, Province, Country) | Dates | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Alberni Rock & Gem Show | Port Alberni, British Columbia, Canada | Mar 8 – 9, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Club website N/A) | Small/Local | Club show, casual, rockhound-focused |
| Victoria Lapidary & Mineral Society Show | Victoria, British Columbia, Canada | Mar 14 – 16, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Club website N/A) | Medium | Community show, demos & exhibits |
| Hastings Centre Rockhounds Gem & Mineral Show | Burnaby (Metro Vancouver), BC, Canada | Mar 15 – 16, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Club website N/A) | Small/Local | Club show, family-friendly atmosphere |
| BC Gem Show (Fraser Valley) | Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada | Apr 11 – 13, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | BC Gem Show | Large | Large regional show, many dealers, family-friendly |
| Vancouver Gem & Mineral Show – Spring | Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada | Mar 28 – 30, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Vancouver Gem Show | Large | Major urban show, retail-focused, popular crowd |
| Abbotsford Gem & Mineral Society Show | Abbotsford, British Columbia, Canada | Jun 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Club Facebook) | Medium | Club-led show, casual, rockhound vibe |
| CanGems Kelowna Gem & Mineral Show | Kelowna, British Columbia, Canada | Jun 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | CanGems Kelowna | Medium | Traveling show, mix of gems & minerals, public-friendly |
| CanGems Kamloops Gem & Mineral Show | Kamloops, British Columbia, Canada | Jun 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | CanGems Kamloops | Medium | Similar traveling show, casual vibe |
| Nanaimo Rock & Gem Show | Nanaimo, British Columbia, Canada | June 7 – 8, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date) | (Club page) | Small/Local | Club show, informal, local collectors |
| Surrey Rock & Gem Show | Surrey, British Columbia, Canada | Jul 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date) | Surrey Rockhound Club | Small/Local | Club show, outdoorsy, rock-trading vibe |
| Vancouver Gem & Mineral Show – Fall | Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada | Aug 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Vancouver Gem Show | Large | Large show (fall edition), wholesale-heavy and retail |
| Port Moody Rock & Gem Club Show | Port Moody, British Columbia, Canada | Oct 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Club Facebook) | Small/Local | Club show, community vibe, family activities |
| Victoria Gem & Mineral Show – Winter | Victoria, British Columbia, Canada | Nov 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Victoria Gem Show | Medium | Seasonal show, mix of vendors, casual |
| Parksville Rock & Gem Show | Parksville, British Columbia, Canada | Nov 28 – 30, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Club event page) | Small/Local | Club show, laid-back, rockhound-focused |
British Columbia has a mix of club-run shows (often small and community-oriented) and larger commercial shows in Vancouver and other cities. The BC Gem Show in Abbotsford is one of the province’s largest annual events (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule), while the Vancouver Gem & Mineral Show is a major public show held multiple times a year. (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date)
Manitoba
| Event Name | Location (City, Province, Country) | Dates | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Winnipeg Rock N’ Gem Show | Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada | Mar 6 – 9, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Winnipeg | Medium | Retail gem show, family-friendly vibe |
| Brandon Rock N’ Gem Show | Brandon, Manitoba, Canada | May 2 – 4, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Brandon | Medium | Regional show, casual, rock & fossil sales |
| 10th Annual Winnipeg Rock & Gem Show | Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada | Nov 2025 (TBD) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Winnipeg | Medium/Large | Large fall show edition, popular, retail-heavy |
Manitoba’s shows are largely spearheaded by commercial organizers (Silver Cove/CanGems) in Winnipeg and Brandon, featuring multiple vendors selling gems, minerals, fossils, and jewelry in a casual, family-friendly setting. (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule)
Saskatchewan
| Event Name | Location (City, Province, Country) | Dates | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regina Rock N’ Gem Show | Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada | May 9 – 11, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Regina | Medium | Retail gem show, regional, casual vibe |
| Saskatoon Rock N’ Gem Show | Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada | May 15 – 18, 2025 (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Saskatoon | Medium | Retail show, family-friendly, hands-on |
| Lloydminster Rock N’ Gem Show | Lloydminster, Saskatchewan, Canada | Nov 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Lloydminster | Medium | Regional show (AB/SK border), casual atmosphere |
Saskatchewan’s major shows in Regina and Saskatoon are part of a traveling circuit, offering a wide range of minerals and gems in a relaxed retail environment. Club-run shows are less common in Saskatchewan compared to these regional “Rock N’ Gem” events. (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule)
Ontario
| Event Name | Location (City, Province, Country) | Dates | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kawartha Rock & Fossil Club Annual Show (Peterborough Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show) | Peterborough, Ontario, Canada | Feb 28 – Mar 2, 2025 (Kawartha Rock & Fossil Club Annual Show) ([Event - Kawartha Rock & Fossil Club presents 30th Annual Peterborough Gem, Mineral, and Fossil Show at Healthy Planet Arena in Peterborough | kawarthaNOW](https://kawarthanow.com/event/70352/30th-annual-peterborough-gem-mineral-and-fossil-show/#:~:text=Date%3AFriday%2C%20February%2028%20,free%20for%20children%20under%2012)) | (Club site) | Medium |
| The Gem Expo (Spring) | Toronto, Ontario, Canada | Mar 14 – 16, 2025 (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | The Gem Expo | Medium | Urban show, beads & gems, mix of casual and trade |
| Paris Gem & Mineral Show | Paris, Ontario, Canada | Apr 5 – 6, 2025 (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Brantford Lapidary Club | Small/Local | Club show in small town, relaxed atmosphere |
| Ottawa Rock N’ Gem Show (Spring) | Ottawa, Ontario, Canada | Apr 10 – 13, 2025 (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Ottawa | Medium | Retail show, lots of vendors, public-oriented |
| Barrie Rock N’ Gem Show | Barrie, Ontario, Canada | Apr 18 – 20, 2025 (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Barrie | Medium | Regional show, casual, gem & fossil sales |
| London Rock N’ Gem Show | London, Ontario, Canada | Apr 25 – 27, 2025 (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove London | Medium | Regional show, informal, family-friendly |
| Toronto Gem & Mineral Show | Toronto, Ontario, Canada | May 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Event page TBD) | Medium | Public show in Toronto, mix of collectors and vendors |
| K-W Gem & Mineral Show & Sale (KW Gem Show) | Kitchener (Waterloo Region), Ontario, Canada | May 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | KW Gem Show | Medium | Club-organized, casual vibe, rockhounds and families |
| Niagara Peninsula Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show (“Gemfest”) | St. Catharines (Niagara), Ontario, Canada | Jun 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Niagara Peninsula Club | Medium | Club show, community-focused, hobbyist vibe |
| Sudbury Gem & Mineral Show | Sudbury, Ontario, Canada | July 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Sudbury Rock & Lapidary Society | Medium | Long-running show, casual, rockhound-focused |
| The Gem Expo (Summer) | Toronto, Ontario, Canada | Jul 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | The Gem Expo | Medium | Repeat of Gem Expo – beads, gems, jewelry, lively crowd |
| Rockhound Gemboree (Bancroft) | Bancroft, Ontario, Canada | Aug 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Bancroft Gemboree | Large | Largest in Canada, rockhound-focused, dealers & field trips |
| Nova Scotia (Parrsboro) Gem & Mineral Show (guest event in Ontario listing) | Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, Canada | Aug 2025 (dates below) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (See Nova Scotia section) | – | – (listed under NS) |
| Asbestos Mineralogical Fair | Asbestos (Val-des-Sources), Quebec, Canada | Aug 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Municipal site) | Medium | Niche mineral fair, collector-focused, bilingual vibe |
| Wonders of the Earth Show (Cornwall) | Cornwall, Ontario, Canada | Sep 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Cornwall Club | Small | Club show, casual, educational exhibits |
| OLMC Gem & Mineral Show (Oxford & London Club) | Woodstock, Ontario, Canada | Sep 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | OLMC Show | Medium | Multi-club show, family-friendly, demonstrations |
| Thetford Mines Mineralogical Fair | Thetford Mines, Quebec, Canada | Sep 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Municipal site) | Medium | Regional mineral fair, rockhound and academic mix |
| Ancaster Gem, Mineral, Bead & Jewellery Show | Ancaster (Hamilton), Ontario, Canada | Oct 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Ancaster Gem Show | Large | Major show/sale, many vendors, mix of wholesale & retail |
| Montreal Gem & Mineral Show | Montreal, Quebec, Canada | Oct 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Club de Minéralogie Montréal | Large | Big city show, high public turnout, bilingual, mix of casual & high-end |
| Gem Storm (Kingston Lapidary & Mineral Club Show) | Kingston, Ontario, Canada | Oct 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Gem Storm | Medium | Club show, relaxed vibe, mix of dealers and hobbyists |
| Sault Ste. Marie Rock N’ Gem Show | Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario, Canada | Oct 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Sault | Medium | Regional retail show, casual atmosphere |
| University of Waterloo Gem & Mineral Show | Waterloo, Ontario, Canada | Oct 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | UW Earth Sciences Museum | Small | Educational showcase, university museum vibe, family-friendly |
| Ottawa Rock N’ Gem Show (Fall) | Ottawa, Ontario, Canada | Oct 2024 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (2025 dates TBA) | Silver Cove Ottawa | Medium | Repeat Ottawa event (fall), similar vibe as spring show |
| Thunder Bay Rock N’ Gem Show | Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada | Nov 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Silver Cove Thunder Bay | Medium | Regional show, casual, mix of gems & fossils |
| Quebec City “Quebec Gift Expo” (Gem section) | Québec City, Quebec, Canada | Apr 2026 (scheduled) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Quebec Gift Expo | Large/Trade | Gift industry trade show with gem/jewelry section, high-end/trade vibe |
Ontario has the most abundant gem & mineral events in Canada, ranging from club-organized shows (e.g., Peterborough, Kingston) to large commercial shows. Bancroft’s Rockhound Gemboree is Canada’s largest and longest-running gem & mineral show, drawing international dealers and rockhounds (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule). The Gem Expo in Toronto is a popular urban show held multiple times a year, focusing on gems, jewelry, and beads in a bustling marketplace. Club shows (e.g., Kawartha, K-W, Niagara) tend to be medium-sized, family-friendly events with a rockhound flavor, while big city shows in Toronto, Ottawa, and Montreal attract a wide public audience and many vendors. (Kawartha Rock & Fossil Club Annual Show) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule)
Nova Scotia
| Event Name | Location (City, Province, Country) | Dates | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nova Scotia Gem & Mineral Show | Parrsboro, Nova Scotia, Canada | Aug 16 – 18, 2025 (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Parrsboro Rock & Mineral Show | Medium | Community event, rockhound-focused, with field trips |
| Halifax Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada | Dates TBA | (Local club event page) | Small | Club show, casual and educational |
Nova Scotia’s main event is the annual show in Parrsboro (organized by the Fundy Geological Museum), which showcases local minerals (like amethyst and agate) and attracts enthusiasts in a friendly, rockhound-centric atmosphere. Smaller club shows may occur in Halifax or other towns on occasion. (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule)
Quebec
| Event Name | Location (City, Province, Country) | Dates | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asbestos Mineralogical Fair | Val-des-Sources (Asbestos), Quebec, Canada | Aug 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Municipal info page) | Medium | Regional mineral fair, showcases local minerals (asbestos history), niche audience |
| Thetford Mines Mineralogical Fair | Thetford Mines, Quebec, Canada | Sep 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | (Local club/municipal site) | Medium | Regional show with mineral collections, academic and hobbyist mix |
| Montreal Gem & Mineral Show | Montreal, Quebec, Canada | Oct 2025 (TBD) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) | Montreal Gem & Mineral Show | Large | Large urban show, high attendance, mix of casual collectors and serious dealers |
| Quebec City Gift & Jewelry Expo | Québec City, Quebec, Canada | Nov 2025 (TBD) | Quebec Gift Expo | Large/Trade | Trade-show style, upscale jewelry and gift focus, industry vibe |
Quebec’s gem and mineral scene includes specialized mineral fairs in the mining towns of Asbestos (Val-des-Sources) and Thetford Mines – these have a more geological focus and attract collectors interested in local minerals. Montreal hosts a large annual public gem and mineral show (bilingual, with a broad mix of minerals, gems, and fossils) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule). Quebec City’s events are often tied to gift or trade expos rather than standalone rock shows.
New Brunswick / Newfoundland & Labrador / P.E.I.
- Note: These Atlantic provinces have fewer large gem shows. Occasional club shows or rock swaps may occur (often coordinated by local clubs or museums), but no major annual gem & mineral exhibition was noted in 2025 listings. For example, the Fundy Geology Festival in Saint John, NB or informal club shows in St. John’s, NL may take place, but they are typically small/local. (No significant events to list for 2025.)
United States
(Listed by state; all events are in the USA. Dates are 2025 unless otherwise noted.)
Alabama
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website / Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montgomery Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show (54th Annual) | Montgomery, Alabama, USA | Dec 6 – 8, 2024 (prev. year) (54th Annual Montgomery Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show - Mont...) | (Montgomery Gem & Mineral Society) | Medium | Long-running club show, family-friendly, mix of gems & fossils |
| Mobile Rock & Gem Society Annual Show | Mobile, Alabama, USA | Nov 28 – 30, 2025 (Annual Jewelry, Gem and Mineral Show - Mobile Rock & Gem Society) | Mobile Rock & Gem | Medium | Club show, casual atmosphere, demos and kids’ activities (Annual Jewelry, Gem and Mineral Show - Mobile Rock & Gem Society) |
| Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society Show | Bessemer, Alabama, USA | Aug 29 – 31, 2025 (Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society Gem & Mineral Show) | LapidaryClub.com | Medium | Regional club show, rockhound-focused, informal vibe (Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society) |
| Dothan Gem & Mineral Show (club show) | Dothan, Alabama, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (Dothan Gem & Mineral Club) | Small/Local | Club show, informal, hobbyist trading |
Alabama’s shows are primarily organized by local gem & mineral societies. The annual shows in Montgomery and Mobile draw local crowds and feature many club displays and dealers (54th Annual Montgomery Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show - Mont...) (Annual Jewelry, Gem and Mineral Show - Mobile Rock & Gem Society). The vibe is generally casual and family-friendly, with activities like geode cracking and demonstrations.
Alaska
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chugach Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Anchorage, Alaska, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Chugach Gem & Mineral Society) | Small | Club show, informal gathering of rockhounds |
| Juneau Rock & Mineral Show (in planning) | Juneau, Alaska, USA | TBD (intermittent) | (Local rock club event) | Small | Rock swap style, casual |
Alaska has relatively few gem shows due to its smaller population and remote location. Local rockhounding clubs occasionally host small shows or rock swaps in Anchorage or Juneau. These events are intimate and rockhound-focused, often doubling as club meet-ups. (No large-scale annual gem show is prominent in Alaska in 2025.)
Arizona
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates (2025) | Website | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tucson Gem & Mineral Show® (Main Show) | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Feb 13 – 16, 2025 | TGMS Official | Large (International) | World’s premier show – high-end exhibits, museum-quality minerals, global dealers, huge crowds (It's time to get excited for the 2025 Tucson Gem Mall and Holidome ...) |
| 22nd Street Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Jan 26 – Feb 11, 2025 | 22nd Street Show | Large | Huge tent show, mix of wholesale and retail, casual bazaar vibe |
| AGTA GemFair™ Tucson (trade-only) | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Feb 6 – 11, 2025 | AGTA GemFair | Large (Trade) | High-end trade show for loose gems & jewelry, industry professionals only |
| GJX Gem & Jewelry Exchange | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Feb 2025 (during Tucson Showcase) | GJX Show | Large (International) | Upscale dealers, fine gems/jewelry, trade-focused environment |
| JOGS Tucson Gem & Jewelry Show | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Jan 25 – Feb 5, 2025 | JOGS Show | Large | Major show with international vendors, lots of silver, turquoise, and minerals – wholesale-heavy but open to public |
| Kino Gem & Mineral Show | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Jan 27 – Feb 11, 2025 | Kino Show | Large | Outdoor/indoor show, casual flea-market atmosphere, great for rockhounds |
| RMGM Show – Mineral & Fossil Marketplace | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Jan 27 – Feb 11, 2025 | RMGM Shows | Medium | Specialized fossil/mineral dealers, relaxed setting, collector-focused |
| Pueblo Gem & Mineral Show | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Jan 27 – Feb 13, 2025 | Pueblo Show | Large | Historic hotel show, diverse dealers (minerals, gems, tribal art), mid-range vibe |
| Quartzsite “Tyson Wells” Rock & Gem Show | Quartzsite, Arizona, USA | Jan 2025 (various, e.g., Jan 5–Jan 14) (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date) | Tyson Wells Shows | Large | Outdoor swap-meet style show, rockhound paradise, very casual |
| QIA PowWow Gem & Mineral Show | Quartzsite, Arizona, USA | Jan 17 – 21, 2025 (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date) | QIA PowWow | Large | Renowned Quartzsite event – informal, tailgate atmosphere, great for raw rocks and trading (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date) |
| Desert Gardens International Show | Quartzsite, Arizona, USA | Jan 2025 (Jan 1–Feb 28, ongoing) (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date) | (Quartzsite RV Park event) | Large | Long-running open-air market for gems/minerals, RV’ers and rockhounds, very laid-back |
| Arizona Mineral & Fossil Show (Hotel Tucson) | Tucson, Arizona, USA | Feb 2025 (dates vary) | Hotel Tucson City Center Show | Large | Multiple hotels with dealers, fossils & minerals, moderate-to-high end, but casual browsing |
| Flagstaff Gem & Mineral Show | Flagstaff, Arizona, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | Flagstaff G&M Club | Medium | Club show, indoors, family-friendly, local collectors and dealers |
| Phoenix Gem & Mineral Show (Maricopa Club) | Phoenix, Arizona, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | MGCAZ Show | Medium | Annual club show, casual setting, mix of gems, minerals, jewelry, kids’ activities |
Arizona is home to the world-famous Tucson Gem & Mineral Showcase, a conglomeration of 50+ shows in late Jan/Feb. The Tucson main show is an international spectacle (It's time to get excited for the 2025 Tucson Gem Mall and Holidome ...), while dozens of satellite shows (like 22nd Street, AGTA, GJX, JOGS, Kino, etc.) cater to everyone from high-end gem traders to casual collectors (Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society Gem & Mineral Show) (Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society Gem & Mineral Show). In January, Quartzsite in western AZ becomes a rockhound mecca (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date), with outdoor shows such as the PowWow and Tyson Wells offering a very informal, swap-meet vibe. Beyond Tucson, local clubs in Flagstaff and Phoenix hold annual shows on a smaller scale, emphasizing community and hands-on fun.
Arkansas
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Arkansas Gem, Mineral and Geology Show | Little Rock, Arkansas, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | Central AR GMGS | Medium | Club show with regional dealers, casual and educational |
| Northwest Arkansas Gem & Mineral Show (NWA G&MS) | Bentonville, Arkansas, USA | July 12 – 13, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | (NWAGMS Facebook) | Small/Local | Club show (new location), family-friendly, demos & kids’ area (Update Show Dates All) |
| Crater of Diamonds State Park – Diamond Festival (example) | Murfreesboro, Arkansas, USA | TBA (summer event) | (State park event page) | Small | Outdoor event at diamond mine park, very casual, dig-your-own focus |
Arkansas’s rockhounding culture centers on quartz crystals and diamonds. Formal gem shows are not as numerous; the Central Arkansas show in Little Rock is a well-attended club-led event with a casual vibe. In 2025, the Northwest Arkansas Gem & Mineral Society show in Bentonville moved to a new venue and expanded vendors (Update Show Dates All), maintaining a family-friendly atmosphere. Visitors to the state often partake in digging at Crater of Diamonds State Park rather than attending large expos.
California
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates (2025) | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| California (East Bay) Mineral & Gem Show | Newark, California, USA | Feb 28 – Mar 2, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | MGSCV Newark Show | Medium | Long-running show with ~40 dealers, demonstrations, very family-friendly (Update Show Dates All) |
| Del Mar Gem Faire (San Diego County) | Del Mar, California, USA | Feb 28 – Mar 2, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Gem Faire Del Mar | Large | Big commercial show, lots of beads & gems, wholesale prices, bustling (Update Show Dates All) |
| Victor Valley Tailgate (Stoddard Wells) | Apple Valley, California, USA | Mar 7 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | VVGMC Tailgate | Medium | Outdoor “tailgate” swap meet in the desert, rockhound heaven, very casual (Update Show Dates All) |
| Ventura Gem & Mineral Society Show | Ventura, California, USA | Mar 1 – 2, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | VGMS Show | Medium | 62nd annual club show, free entry, kids’ activities, relaxed and educational (Update Show Dates All) |
| Anthem Gem & Mineral Show (AZ club in CA) | Anthem (Mohave Co., AZ) at Needles, CA – [error] | Mar 1 – 2, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Daisy Mt. Club (AZ) | Small | Regional club show (held across state line), casual, community vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
| San Jose Gem & Mineral Show (SCVGMS) | San Jose, California, USA | Mar 15 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | SCVGMS Show | Medium | Club show with many exhibits, well-organized, family-friendly (Update Show Dates All) |
| Fallbrook Gem & Mineral Society Sale | Fallbrook, California, USA | Mar 16, 2025 (one-day) (Update Show Dates All) | FGMS Museum | Small | Club clearance sale at museum, informal, great for bargain hunters (Update Show Dates All) |
| Pacific Crystal Fair – San Francisco (Spring) | San Francisco, California, USA | Mar 2 – 3, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Crystal Fair SF | Medium | New Age vibe fair, ~50 vendors of crystals/beads, metaphysical flavor (Update Show Dates All) |
| Mariposa Gem & Mineral Show | Mariposa, California, USA | Oct 12 – 13, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Mariposa GMS | Medium | 30th annual, community fair style, lots of raw gold/quartz, friendly atmosphere (Update Show Dates All) |
| El Dorado County Gem & Mineral Show | Placerville, California, USA | Oct 12 – 13, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | EDCMGS Show | Medium | Annual fairgrounds show, exhibits & dealers, family-friendly, hands-on fun (Update Show Dates All) |
| Conejo Gem & Mineral Club Show | Thousand Oaks, California, USA | Apr 12 – 13, 2025 (also Oct) (Update Show Dates All) | CGMC Show | Medium | Club show, free admission, demonstrations, relaxed community event (Update Show Dates All) |
| Turlock Gem & Mineral Show (Mother Lode Club) | Turlock, California, USA | Mar 8 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | MLMS Show | Medium | Central Valley’s big show, family event with gold panning, kids’ activities (Update Show Dates All) |
| West Coast Gem & Mineral Show (Spring) | Santa Ana, California, USA | May 2025 (TBD) | Lapidary Journal Ref. | Large | Dealer-centric show, lots of wholesale, fine minerals, serious collectors |
| CFMS Gold & Gem Show (CFMS Expo) | Lodi, California, USA | June 2025 (TBD) | CFMS Society | Medium | California Federation show, rotates location, mix of club exhibits and dealers |
| San Francisco Crystal Fair (Winter) | San Francisco, California, USA | Nov 29 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Crystal Fair SF | Medium | Winter edition of crystal fair – similar metaphysical and casual vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
| Sacramento Gem Faire | Sacramento, California, USA | May 2 – 4, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Gem Faire Sacramento | Large | Big traveling show, lots of gem/bead vendors, busy marketplace atmosphere (Update Show Dates All) |
| Roseville Rock Rollers Tailgate | Roseville, California, USA | April 5, 2025 (1-day) (Update Show Dates All) | RRR Gem & Mineral Society | Small | Outdoor tailgate swap, club members selling/trading, very casual (Update Show Dates All) |
| Anaheim Searchers Gem & Mineral Show | Anaheim, California, USA | Apr 26 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Searchers GMS | Medium | Club show, free admission, many fun activities for kids, lapidary demos (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) |
| Grants Pass (OR) Rogue Gem & Geology Show (near CA) | Grants Pass, Oregon, USA (serves NorCal) | Apr 26 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Rogue G&G Club | Medium | Nearby Southern OR show popular with NorCal rockhounds, relaxed vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
California hosts numerous gem shows year-round. Notably, the East Bay (Newark) show in February is one of the first of the year, featuring dozens of dealers and demonstrations (Update Show Dates All). Gem Faire runs large commercial shows (Del Mar, Sacramento, etc.) with hundreds of vendors, drawing crowds looking for bargains on jewelry and beads (Update Show Dates All). Many active gem clubs across the state hold annual shows – e.g., Ventura, San Jose, Conejo (Thousand Oaks) – known for their friendly, educational atmosphere. Southern California also has recurring Crystal Fairs in San Francisco and Walnut Creek, which have a metaphysical “crystal energy” flair (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All). The Stoddard Wells Tailgate in the Mojave Desert is a unique outdoor rock swap where rockhounds camp and trade in a very informal setting (Update Show Dates All). California’s scene ranges from high-end (West Coast Shows, CFMS federation show) to casual club tailgates – something for every audience.
Colorado
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates (2025) | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Colorado Mineral & Fossil Show (Spring) | Denver, Colorado, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | RMGM Promotions | Large | Dealer-heavy show, mix of fossils & minerals, serious collectors and wholesalers |
| Denver Gem & Mineral Show @ HardRock Summit | Denver, Colorado, USA | Sept 15 – 18, 2025 | HardRock Summit | Large (Int’l) | Major show with museum exhibits and global dealers (Denver’s premier fall event) |
| The Denver Show (Denver Mineral Showcase) | Denver, Colorado, USA | Sept 8 – 17, 2025 | The Denver Show | Large (Int’l) | Colossal conglomerate of shows (second only to Tucson), high-energy, everything from high-end to bargain fossils |
| Colorado Springs Mineralogical Society Show (Pikes Peak Gem & Mineral Show) | Colorado Springs, CO, USA | June 6 – 8, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Pikes Peak Gem Show | Medium-Large | 50+ vendors of worldwide gems/minerals, popular public show, family-friendly (Update Show Dates All) |
| Fort Collins Rockhounds Gem & Mineral Show | Loveland, Colorado, USA | Mar 28 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Fort Collins Rockhounds | Medium | Annual club show, exhibits, kids’ activities, relaxed but well-attended (Update Show Dates All) |
| Contin-Tail (Buena Vista Gem & Mineral Show) | Buena Vista, Colorado, USA | Aug 7 – 10, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | (Contin-Tail Facebook) | Medium | Outdoor camping/tailgate rock show in mountains, very casual, rockhound meetup |
| Fairplay Gem & Mineral Show (High Alpine Show) | Fairplay, Colorado, USA | Jul 24 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | (Jay Penn Shows) | Medium | Outdoor show with 25+ dealers at 10,000 ft elevation, fun rustic vibe, lots of rough material (Update Show Dates All) |
| Lake George Gem & Mineral Show | Lake George, Colorado, USA | Aug 15 – 17, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | LGGM Club | Medium | Outdoor show near famous amazonite site, ~30 vendors, field trips, rockhound atmosphere (Update Show Dates All) |
| Wigwam Rock & Mineral Show (example) | Sedalia, Colorado, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Local club event) | Small | Informal summer rock swap south of Denver, tailgate style, local collectors |
Colorado is a hotspot for gem and mineral events, especially in September. The Denver Gem & Mineral Showcase each fall is second only to Tucson, comprising multiple coordinated shows: e.g., the HardRock Summit and Denver Expo shows (Shows at the Canada West Provinces sorted by Date). These draw international dealers and have a mix of high-end minerals and fossils as well as mainstream gems. In summer, shows like Contin-Tail in Buena Vista and Fairplay offer a unique mountain-town, tailgater vibe where rockhounds trade under the sky (Update Show Dates All). Club shows in Colorado Springs and Fort Collins cater to families and local enthusiasts with exhibits and kids’ activities (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All). Overall, Colorado shows range from scholarly (museum exhibits at Denver) to downright rustic (camping with rocks in the Rockies).
Connecticut
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stamford Mineral Show (Lapidary & Mineral Soc.) | Stamford, Connecticut, USA | Mar 2025 (TBD) | (Stamford club page) | Small | Local club show, informal, educational |
| Meriden Gem & Mineral Show | Meriden, Connecticut, USA | Aug 8 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | LMSCC Show | Medium | Annual club show with minerals, fossils, kid activities (Update Show Dates All) |
| Danbury Mineralogical Society Swap & Sale | Kent, Connecticut, USA | July 7, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Danbury/MS @ CAMA | Small | One-day outdoor swap at antique machinery museum, casual tailgate vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
| EFMLS Annual Convention & Show (2025) | Orange, Connecticut, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | EFMLS 2025 Show | Medium | Eastern Fed. multi-club show, rotating host (CT in 2025), mix of club exhibits and dealers |
| New Haven Mineral Club Show | North Haven, Connecticut, USA | Apr 5 – 6, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | NH Mineral Club | Small/Local | Club show, informal, community-centered, kid-friendly (Update Show Dates All) |
Connecticut’s mineral clubs keep the show scene alive. The Meriden show each August is a popular event drawing hobbyists from around New England (Update Show Dates All). The state also hosts occasional regional shows, like the Eastern Federation (EFMLS) convention show. Many events here have a strong educational and club-oriented feel, often held in community centers or schools (New Haven, Stamford, etc.). A unique event is the Kent “Rock Swap” at the Connecticut Antique Machinery Museum each July, where dealers set up alongside historic steam tractors – a very relaxed, picnic atmosphere (Update Show Dates All).
Delaware
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delaware Mineralogical Society Show | Wilmington, Delaware, USA | Mar 1 – 2, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | DMS Show | Medium | Only major DE show – club-run, family-friendly, good exhibits and dealers (Update Show Dates All) |
| DMS “World of Gems” Bourse (example) | Wilmington, Delaware, USA | Periodic club event | (Del. Min. Society events) | Small | Specialized exchange event, casual, member-focused |
Delaware’s main event is the Delaware Mineralogical Society’s annual show in Wilmington, typically in early March. It’s a well-regarded show for its size, featuring minerals, fossils, gems, and a kids’ section in a relaxed setting (Update Show Dates All). Other than that, Delaware relies on neighboring states for larger shows.
Florida
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tampa Bay Fossil & Mineral Show (TBMSC) | Tampa, Florida, USA | Apr 5 – 6, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | TBMSC Show | Medium | Club show with 50+ vendors, kids’ sluice and demos, fun for all (Update Show Dates All) |
| Suncoast Gem & Mineral Society Show | Largo, Florida, USA | Mar 7 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | SGAMS Show | Medium | Annual club show, mix of local and out-of-state vendors, auctions, casual vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
| Central Florida (Orlando) Gem & Mineral Show | Orlando, Florida, USA | Apr 26 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | CFMGS Show | Medium | Club show, wide variety of rocks & gems, demonstrations, family activities (Update Show Dates All) |
| Gainesville Rock Workshop & Show (example) | Gainesville, Florida, USA | May 2025 (TBD) | (Gainesville club event) | Small | Hands-on workshop style show, casual, educational |
| St. Petersburg Gem, Jewelry & Mineral Show | St. Petersburg, Florida, USA | Aug 29 – 31, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Florida Gem Show | Medium-Large | New “big fall show” at the Coliseum – ~15,000 sq ft of gems, minerals, jewelry, retail-oriented (Update Show Dates All) |
| Miami Mineral & Fossil Show (example) | Miami, Florida, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | (Miami Museum/Club event) | Small | Boutique show alongside museum exhibits, more formal but small scale |
Florida hosts numerous club shows and a growing number of public gem shows. In spring, the Tampa Bay show and Largo (Suncoast) show are fixtures on the calendar, each featuring dozens of dealers and plenty of activities for kids (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All). The vibe is laid-back Florida – enthusiasts browsing fossils, shark teeth, and sunbaked minerals. Central Florida’s Orlando show is similarly welcoming and educational (Update Show Dates All). In late summer 2025, a larger St. Petersburg gem & jewelry show launched at the historic Coliseum, bringing a more commercial, retail gem fair experience to the area (Update Show Dates All).
Georgia
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Athens Rock, Gem & Mineral Show | Athens, Georgia, USA | Feb 28 – Mar 2, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | (Southeastern Mineral Specimens – Classic Center) | Medium | New regional show with 25+ vendors, public welcome, mix of local and international items (Update Show Dates All) |
| Aiken-Augusta Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show (joint show) | Augusta, Georgia, USA (with Aiken SC) | Mar 7 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Aiken GMFS | Medium | Joint club show (GA/SC), family-friendly, lots of interactive activities (Update Show Dates All) |
| Bellpoint Gem Show (Marietta) | Marietta, Georgia, USA | Mar 14 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) and Sept 21–23, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Bellpoint Promotions | Large | Curated show with select dealers, high-quality minerals, crystals, and jewelry; somewhat upscale vibe (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) |
| Georgia Mineral Society Show (GMS Atlanta) | Marietta, Georgia, USA | May 9 – 11, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | GMS Atlanta | Large | Free admission show by Georgia’s largest club, many exhibits, geode cracking, very busy and family-oriented (Update Show Dates All) |
| Duluth Gem & Mineral Bellpoint Show | Duluth, Georgia, USA | June 6 – 8, 2025 | Bellpoint (Duluth) | Large | Summer edition of Bellpoint show near Atlanta, strong turnout, crystals & gems galore |
| Graves Mountain Rock Swap & Dig | Lincolnton, Georgia, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | Graves Mountain | Medium | Outdoor dig and swap (rutile, lazulite), part field trip/part show, very rockhound-centric |
| Rome Georgia Gem & Mineral Show | Rome, Georgia, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | (Rome GMS Facebook) | Small | Local club show, low-key, community event |
Georgia’s highlight is the Atlanta area shows. The Georgia Mineral Society’s annual show in Marietta (often called “Gem and Mineral Show – Mother’s Day Weekend”) is one of the largest free-admission shows in the Southeast, drawing big crowds with many hands-on activities (Update Show Dates All). For a more curated experience, Bellpoint Promotions runs ticketed shows in Marietta and Duluth, featuring high-end mineral and crystal dealers in a more upscale setting (Update Show Dates All). Elsewhere, Georgia has unique events like the Graves Mountain Rock Swap & Dig, where collectors gather at an active mine to trade specimens and dig for their own (very much a boots-and-Jeans affair for serious rockhounds). The Augusta/Aiken joint show (straddling GA/SC) is a solid regional show known for its hospitality and kids’ treasure digs (Update Show Dates All).
Hawaii
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rock & Mineral Society of Hawaii Show | Honolulu, Hawaii, USA | Mar 29 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Hui Pohaku Honolulu | Small | Only Hawaii rock club show – local vendors, 100% “island-grown” gems/minerals, relaxed atmosphere in Waikiki (Update Show Dates All) |
| Hawaii Rock and Mineral Show (Spring) | Honolulu, Hawaii, USA | Mar 29 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Hawai‘i Min Soc Facebook | Small | (Same as above – spring show) friendly club vibe, free admission at a resort (Update Show Dates All) |
| Maui Rock & Gem Swap (hypothetical) | Kahului, Maui, Hawaii, USA | Occasional (TBD) | (Local rockhound meetup) | Tiny | Casual swap among collectors, often informal at a park |
Hawaii’s sole organized gem/mineral show is in Honolulu, hosted by the Rock & Mineral Society of Hawaii. It’s a small, club-driven event held at a hotel ballroom (e.g., at the Hyatt Regency Waikiki) featuring exclusively local collectors and vendors (Update Show Dates All). The vibe is very friendly and intimate – a chance for island rockhounds to share finds (like Hawaiian minerals, gems, and fossils). Because of Hawaii’s distance, there are no large commercial gem shows; any other rock-related gatherings are informal swaps or museum open houses.
Idaho
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Owyhee Gem & Mineral Society Show | Caldwell, Idaho, USA | Mar 1 – 2, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | OGMS Show | Medium | Annual show (“Gems Come Alive in ’25”), dealers, demonstrations, black-light displays, very family-friendly (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) |
| North Idaho Mineral Club Show | Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, USA | May 31 – Jun 1, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | (North ID Club FB) | Small | Club show, free for kids, silent auctions, relaxed vibe, community event (Update Show Dates All) |
| Idaho Falls Gem & Mineral Show | Idaho Falls, Idaho, USA | April 2025 (TBD) | (Idaho Falls club) | Small | Local club show, informal, rock and fossil displays |
| Magic Valley Gem Club Show | Twin Falls, Idaho, USA | Feb 2025 (TBD) | (MVGC Facebook) | Small | Club show, casual, often held at a county fairground |
| Gem State Crystal & Fossil Expo | Boise, Idaho, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | (Commercial event page) | Medium | Newer expo in Boise with multiple vendors, mix of gems, fossils – retail oriented |
Idaho’s showcase event is put on by the Owyhee Gem & Mineral Society in Caldwell each spring. The 2025 show featured the theme “Gems Come Alive in ’25” and included dealers, displays, and extensive kids’ activities (wheel of gems, grab bags, etc.) (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All). This show reflects Idaho’s rockhound spirit, given the state’s famous opal, garnet, and star garnet localities. Smaller club shows in Coeur d’Alene and Idaho Falls provide local enthusiasts a chance to share finds; they’re typically low-key and community-focused. Boise has seen attempts at larger expos, but those are still growing. Overall vibe: down-to-earth and family-centric.
Illinois
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Rocks & Minerals Society Silent Auction | Skokie, Illinois, USA | Mar 8, 2025 (one-night) (Update Show Dates All) | CRMS Auction | Small | 74th annual silent auction night, fun club tradition, very casual but well-attended by locals (Update Show Dates All) |
| GeoSociety “MAPS” Fossil Expo (MAPS = Mid-America Paleontology Soc.) | Springfield, Illinois, USA | May 9 – 11, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Mid-America Paleo (MAPS) | Medium | Largest fossil-only show, lots of fossils/trilobites, niche crowd but friendly (Update Show Dates All) |
| Chicagoland Gem & Mineral Association Show (“CGMA Show”) | St. Charles, Illinois, USA | May 25 – 26, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | CGMA Show | Large | Regional show with ~50 dealers, demonstrations, kids’ corner, draws from entire Chicago area (Update Show Dates All) |
| Heart of Illinois Show (Geo FAIR) | Peoria (East Peoria), Illinois, USA | Aug 23 – 24, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Geology Section PAS | Medium | Free admission show with many educational demos (fluorescent room, geode cracking), very family-friendly (Update Show Dates All) |
| Southern Illinois Gem & Mineral Show | Marion, Illinois, USA | Oct 12 – 13, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | (Southern IL Earth Science Club) | Small/Medium | Local show in Marion, modest size, hands-on activities, fluorescent minerals display (Update Show Dates All) |
| Tully Monster Show (Esconi) (example) | Elmhurst, Illinois, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | (ESCONI club event) | Small | Club show named after Illinois fossil “Tully Monster,” fossil-focused, educational |
| Des Plaines Valley Gem & Mineral Show | Des Plaines, Illinois, USA | Apr 5 – 6, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | DPVGMS (Facebook) | Small | Club show with kids’ area, silent auction, community vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
Illinois offers a mix of club events and regional shows. The Chicago area has the annual CGMA show in late May, which brings together many clubs and dealers under one roof (a lively public show) (Update Show Dates All). Chicago’s clubs also hold unique events like the long-running Silent Auction night each spring (Update Show Dates All) – an informal gathering for fun and fundraising. Downstate, the Peoria show (Geo FAIR) is notable for its breadth of demonstrations and free admission, making it very accessible (Update Show Dates All). Paleontology buffs flock to the MAPS Fossil Expo in Illinois (one of the largest fossil markets in the U.S.) (Update Show Dates All). Overall, Illinois shows emphasize education (fluorescent mineral rooms, scout merit badge activities) and have a friendly Midwestern vibe.
Indiana
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Central Indiana Gem & Mineral Show | Indianapolis, Indiana, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | Indy Gem & Mineral | Medium | Annual club show in Indy, many dealers, public-friendly, educational exhibits |
| Lawrence County Rock Club Show (60th Annual) | Bedford, Indiana, USA | June 27 – 29, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | Lawrence Co. Rock Club | Medium | Long-running show at fairgrounds, wide variety of rocks/fossils, very family-oriented (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) |
| South Bend “Michiana” Gem & Mineral Show | South Bend, Indiana, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | (Michiana Gem & Mineral Soc.) | Small/Medium | Club show serving Michiana region, casual, community event |
| Geode Fest (Indiana) (linked with Keokuk) | (Southeast Indiana) | Sept 2025 (with IL/IA) | Geode Fest (nearby) | Medium | Geode hunting festival on tri-state border, part field trip, part swap – very rockhound-centric |
Indiana’s main shows include the big Lawrence County show in Bedford, which celebrated 60 years in 2025 (Update Show Dates All). It’s known for a friendly atmosphere – free admission and lots of activities for kids – truly a community staple. Indianapolis hosts a significant club show as well, and in northern Indiana the “Michiana” club show (South Bend area) draws folks from nearby Michigan. While not in Indiana proper, many Indiana rockhounds also attend the Keokuk Geode Fest (near the Indiana/Illinois/Iowa borders) to dig geodes in the fall. Expect Hoosier hospitality and plenty of geodes, fossils, and minerals at these events.
Iowa
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cedar Valley Rock & Mineral Show | Cedar Rapids, Iowa, USA | Mar 22 – 23, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | CVRMS Show | Medium | Annual show with rotating theme (“Ice Age” in 2025), very family-friendly, lots of kids’ activities (Update Show Dates All) |
| Des Moines Gem, Jewelry & Mineral Show | Des Moines, Iowa, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | Des Moines Lapidary | Medium | Well-attended club show, mix of gems, jewelry, and raw minerals, demonstrations, casual vibe |
| Geode Fest (Keokuk) | Keokuk, Iowa, USA | Sept 20 – 21, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Keokuk Geode Fest | Medium | Annual geode dig gathering near Keokuk, with geode auctions and swaps; outdoorsy and rockhound-focused (Update Show Dates All) |
| Waterloo Rock & Mineral Show | Waterloo, Iowa, USA | Apr 6, 2025 (1-day) | Black Hawk G&MS | Small | One-day show at local arts center, demonstrations (gold panning, flint knapping), donations suggested (Update Show Dates All) |
| River Valley Rockhounds Show (example) | Council Bluffs, Iowa, USA | May 2025 (TBD) | (River Valley club FB) | Small | Newer club show in western Iowa, informal, local vendors and club displays |
Iowa’s largest show is in Cedar Rapids, hosted by the Cedar Valley club each spring (Update Show Dates All). It often has a theme and plenty of educational activities (in 2025, the Ice Age theme came with fossil exhibits and a “Mammoth” amount of family fun). Geodes are a big deal in Iowa – the Keokuk Geode Fest on the IA/IL border is a highlight for geode lovers, combining field trips with swapping and socializing (Update Show Dates All). Other Iowa club shows (Des Moines, Waterloo) are community-oriented and welcoming. Expect lots of geodes, Iowa fossils, and Midwestern friendliness.
Kansas
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wichita Gem & Mineral Show | Wichita, Kansas, USA | Apr 25 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | Wichita G&M Society | Medium/Large | Annual show with ~40+ dealers, big focus on youth education (Friday is school day), very engaging for families (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) |
| Topeka Gem & Mineral Show | Topeka, Kansas, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | (Topeka G&M Society) | Small/Medium | Club show, relaxed atmosphere, mix of local and regional dealers |
| McPherson Gem & Mineral Club Show | McPherson, Kansas, USA | May 2 – 4, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | McPherson Club | Small/Local | Free admission show at 4-H fair building, door prizes hourly, friendly small-town vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
| Kansas City Gem & Mineral Show | Kansas City, Missouri (near KS) | Mar 7 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | KC Gem Show | Large | (In nearby MO) – draws Kansas crowd too; 60+ dealers, wholesale section, lectures, very bustling (Update Show Dates All) |
Kansas’ standout is the Wichita Gem & Mineral Show, which in 2025 hosted 60+ dealers plus special exhibits and even an Education Day for school kids (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All). This show has a lively mix of retail and educational elements (gem hunts, “gem dig” for kids) and is a fixture for south-central Kansas. Smaller clubs in Topeka and McPherson put on charming local shows – often free to attend and heavy on community spirit. (Kansas rockhounds also venture to the big Kansas City show just over the border in Missouri, which is a large regional event.)
Kentucky
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Grass Gem & Mineral Show | Lexington, Kentucky, USA | Mar 21 – 23, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | BGGMC Show | Medium/Large | Annual show with strong community turnout – multiple days, lots of minerals/fossils, silent auctions, very inviting atmosphere (Update Show Dates All) |
| KY Agate, Gem & Jewelry Show (example) | Irvine, Kentucky, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | (Kentucky Agate forum) | Small | Niche show focusing on Kentucky agates, informal gathering of collectors |
| Louisville Gem & Mineral Show | Louisville, Kentucky, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | KYANA Club | Medium | Hosted by KYANA Geological Society, club displays, mix of minerals and fossils, family-friendly |
| Geode Fest (Kentucky) (see Geode Fest in IA) | (see Keokuk, IA) | Sept 2025 | (Geode Fest in tri-state area) | – | – (Kentucky geode hunters usually attend Keokuk fest) |
Kentucky’s most prominent event is the Lexington Gem & Mineral Show organized by the Blue Grass club (Update Show Dates All). It’s known for its warm hospitality – free kids’ admission, door prizes, and a wide array of minerals (Kentucky geodes and agates are a highlight). Louisville’s KYANA club also puts on a show that draws in the local crowd. Unique to Kentucky are its beautiful banded agates; while there isn’t a huge dedicated agate show, enthusiasts often meet informally or piggyback on rock swaps to share finds. Overall vibe: Southern hospitality meets rockhounding.
Louisiana
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Baton Rouge Gem & Mineral Show | Baton Rouge, Louisiana, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | BRGMS Facebook | Medium | Annual club show at local venue, friendly atmosphere, variety of gems, minerals, and lapidary demos |
| New Orleans Gem & Jewelry Show | Kenner (New Orleans), Louisiana, USA | June 2025 (TBD) | InterGem New Orleans | Medium/Large | Traveling commercial show (InterGem) with lots of jewelry vendors, more retail/wholesale feel, lively crowd |
| Acadiana Rock & Gem Show (example) | Lafayette, Louisiana, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (Acadiana club) | Small | Local club show, casual, showcasing Louisiana opal, petrified wood, etc. |
| Ark-La-Tex Gem & Mineral Show | Shreveport, Louisiana, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | Ark-La-Tex GMS | Medium | Joint region show (LA/TX/AR), club-centric but decent size, friendly and educational |
Louisiana’s gem shows are fewer, often driven by club efforts. Baton Rouge’s show and the Ark-La-Tex show in Shreveport are key events, each with a laid-back, community vibe (think kids sluicing for gems and talks on Mississippi River agates). The New Orleans area sees an influx of national dealers when InterGem brings a jewelry-heavy show – glitzier and more commercial than the club shows. Overall, Louisiana shows blend lapidary arts (locals love cabochons and wire-wrap jewelry) with minerals and a dose of Cajun charm.
Maine
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| CMRC Rock & Mineral Show (Cape Cod in Maine?) [error] | (Possibly a mix-up) | see MA | – | – | – |
| Midcoast Maine Gem & Mineral Show | Belfast, Maine, USA | Aug 1 – 3, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Midcoast Mineral Collectors | Medium | First annual show in Belfast in 2025, multi-vendor event by the bay, mix of Maine minerals and jewelry, scenic and casual (Update Show Dates All) |
| Oxford County Mineral & Gem Show | West Paris, Maine, USA | July 2025 (TBD) | (Local club / Poland Mining Camps) | Small | Informal show coinciding with summer digs, focus on Maine tourmaline and pegmatites, rockhound vibe |
| Maine Mineral Symposium | Bethel, Maine, USA | June 2025 (TBD) | Maine Mineral Symposium | Small/Medium | Annual symposium with talks and swap tables, more academic/collector atmosphere |
Maine is famous for its tourmaline and pegmatite minerals. In 2025, the Midcoast Mineral Club launched a new show in Belfast (downtown by the water) – a promising medium-sized show highlighting Maine gems and featuring multiple vendors (Update Show Dates All). Other events tend to be tied to the rich local mineral scene: an Oxford County show in the heart of tourmaline country, and a Mineral Symposium where serious collectors converge. These gatherings have a quaint and enthusiastic feel – a lot of local miners and collectors trading their latest quarry finds.
Maryland
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gem Lapidary & Mineral Society Show | Gaithersburg, Maryland, USA | Mar 15 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | GLMSMC Show | Medium | Montgomery Co. fairgrounds show, 40+ exhibits, many dealers, demos (faceting, gold panning), very family-friendly (Update Show Dates All) |
| Chesapeake Gem & Mineral Show | West Friendship, Maryland, USA | Apr 19, 2025 (one-day) (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | Chesapeake G&M Soc. | Medium | 34th annual one-day show, free admission, minerals, fossils, jewelry in a fairground hall, active kids’ area, relaxed atmosphere (Update Show Dates All) |
| Gem Miner’s Spring Show (Mid-Atlantic) | West Friendship, Maryland, USA | June 13 – 15, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Gem Miners Show | Large | Big regional show with both retail and wholesale sections, lots of beads, gems, fossils; draws crowds from DC/Baltimore, mix of casual shoppers and serious buyers (Update Show Dates All) |
| Gem Miner’s Holiday Show | Lebanon, PA (near MD) | Nov 14 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Mid-Atlantic GMA | Large | (Nearby PA) Popular holiday-season show for gems/minerals serving Mid-Atlantic, festive vibe, plenty of gift shoppers (Update Show Dates All) |
| Southern Maryland Rock & Mineral Show (example) | Solomons, Maryland, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | (Southern MD Rock Club) | Small | Local club show, modest size, community center setting, informal |
Maryland hosts a couple of notable shows. The GLMSMC Show in Gaithersburg (March) is a well-established two-day show with dozens of vendors and extensive educational exhibits – a hallmark of a great club show (Update Show Dates All). In April, the Chesapeake Gem & Mineral Society runs a free one-day show at the Howard County Fairgrounds, which is very accessible and typically jam-packed for the brief time it runs (Update Show Dates All). Maryland is also home to the long-running Gem Miner’s shows (spring and fall) that actually take place just over the line in Pennsylvania but draw many Marylanders; these are larger-scale, commercial shows with an almost expo-like feel (Update Show Dates All). The general vibe in MD shows: welcoming and educational (with local celestine, quartz, and fossils often on display), unless you’re at the big Gem Miner’s expo, which feels more like a bustling gem market.
Massachusetts
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| East Coast Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show | Springfield, Massachusetts, USA | Aug 9 – 11, 2025 | East Coast Show | Large | One of the biggest on East Coast – national dealers, special exhibits (e.g., Tucson level displays), high-end minerals and also public retail, busy and buzzing |
| Connecticut Valley Mineral Club Show | Chicopee, Massachusetts, USA | Mar 22 – 23, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | CVMC Show | Medium | Club show in western MA, affordable admission, free minerals for kids, friendly atmosphere with many local collectors (Update Show Dates All) |
| Boston Mineral Club Show (reviving) | Boston, Massachusetts, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | Boston Mineral Club | Small/Medium | Club-held show or open house, focus on mineral specimens, more collector-oriented but low-key |
| Rock, Mineral & Fossil Hunt @ Harvard (educational) | Cambridge, MA, USA | Ongoing exhibits | Harvard Mineralogical Museum | n/a | (Not a show per se, but the Harvard museum holds an annual Mineral Day – educational vibe) |
Massachusetts boasts the East Coast Gem & Mineral Show in Springfield – a mecca for serious collectors each August. It’s a large, professionally run show that attracts top dealers from across the country and often features a themed exhibit (akin to a mini Tucson) – definitely a high-end vibe mixed with general public excitement. In contrast, the Chicopee show by the Connecticut Valley club is a classic local show: affordable and aimed at families and new rockhounds (free minerals for kids, etc.) (Update Show Dates All). Boston itself hasn’t had a huge public show recently, though clubs and the Harvard museum foster the hobby through events and open houses. Expect a mix in MA: world-class minerals at Springfield, and homegrown New England treasures (beryl, quartz, etc.) at the smaller shows.
Michigan
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Michigan Gem & Mineral Society Show | Jackson, Michigan, USA | June 14 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | MGMS Jackson | Medium | 60th annual show in 2025, multi-day with many dealers, demonstrations and kids’ activities, classic rockhound-friendly show (Update Show Dates All) |
| Indian Mounds Rock & Mineral Club Show | Wyoming (Grand Rapids), MI, USA | Apr 10 – 12, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Indian Mounds Club | Medium | Free admission 3-day show at mall, lots of activities for kids (egg carton mineral collections, geode cracking), strong community turnout (Update Show Dates All) |
| Greater Detroit Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show | Warren (Detroit), Michigan, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | MWF Detroit Show | Large | Big fall show usually hosted by Michigan Mineral Soc., dozens of dealers and exhibits, draws from entire region, mix of casual and serious collectors |
| Upper Peninsula Gem & Mineral Show | Ishpeming, Michigan, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | Ishpeming Rock Club | Medium | Long-running UP show, strong focus on Lake Superior agates, copper, datolite; friendly small-town vibe with field trips to local mines |
| Kalamazoo Geological Society Show | Kalamazoo, Michigan, USA | May 2 – 4, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Kalamazoo Rock Club | Medium | 45+ dealers, silent auctions, geode cracking – a vibrant show for all ages, something for everyone (Update Show Dates All) |
| Roamin Club “Rock Swap” | Livonia, Michigan, USA | May 2025 (weekend) | Roamin Club MI | Small | Outdoor rock swap meet in metro Detroit, tailgate style, club members trading finds – very casual |
Michigan has a very active rockhound community. The Jackson show in June is a highlight – 2025 was its 60th year, indicating how established it is (Update Show Dates All). In the west, the Indian Mounds club show (Grand Rapids area) each April is notably free and packed with kids’ activities, reflecting a mission to engage new hobbyists (Update Show Dates All). Detroit’s fall show (often in Warren) is one of the larger Midwest shows, attracting dealers from several states and large public attendance. The Upper Peninsula’s Ishpeming show, while smaller, is beloved for its local minerals and field trips (a real rockhound flavor). Michigan shows often feature the state’s famous copper specimens, Petoskey stones, and Lake Superior agates – with a warm Midwest welcome to match.
Minnesota
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| St. Cloud Agate Swap | St. Cloud, Minnesota, USA | Mar 30, 2025 (one-day) (Update Show Dates All) | (Informal swap, St. Cloud club) | Small | Annual agate lovers’ swap meet, free entry, very casual – collectors trading Lake Superior agates and more (Update Show Dates All) |
| Minnesota Mineral Club Show | St. Paul, Minnesota, USA | Sept 27 – 28, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | MN Mineral Club | Medium/Large | Big twin-cities show at State Fairgrounds, dozens of vendors, many exhibits, suggested donation entry – extremely family-friendly with lots for kids (Update Show Dates All) |
| Anoka County Gem & Mineral Show | Crystal, Minnesota, USA | Oct 12 – 13, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Anoka (Rock-Biz) | Small/Medium | Anoka club’s show in a community center, free admission jar, door prizes hourly – relaxed and welcoming (Update Show Dates All) |
| Minnesota Mineral Club Rock Swap | Falcon Heights, Minnesota, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Club picnic & swap) | Small | Outdoor rock swap (often at a park), member-to-member trading, very casual |
| Duluth Bellpoint Gem Show | Duluth, Minnesota, USA | Dec 5 – 7, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Bellpoint (Duluth) | Medium | A winter gem show in Duluth – new event by Bellpoint, featuring crystals and healing stones, more of a retail/metaphysical vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
Minnesota’s club scene is vibrant. The Minnesota Mineral Club’s fall show in St. Paul is the highlight – essentially the state’s largest, with 60+ vendors, extensive displays, and activities (and it’s free with a donation) (Update Show Dates All). It’s very kid-friendly, with things like rock ID games and a “Mine for kids.” In central MN, agate enthusiasts gather at the St. Cloud Agate Swap each spring to trade their prized Lake Superior agates in a laid-back setting (Update Show Dates All). Smaller shows like Anoka’s have the feel of a community fair (door prizes, coffee and cookies) (Update Show Dates All). In 2025, a new show in Duluth gave North Shore folks a winter gem fix, leaning a bit into the metaphysical crystal trend. Overall, expect Minnesota nice – welcoming shows where everyone from kids to seasoned collectors have a good time.
Mississippi
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mississippi Gem & Mineral Society Show | Jackson, Mississippi, USA | Feb 2025 (TBD) | MGMS (Mississippi) | Medium | Annual show in Jackson, club-run, good variety of dealers, demonstrations (lapidary), friendly Southern hospitality |
| Ocean Springs Geology Fest (example) | Ocean Springs, Mississippi, USA | May 2025 (TBD) | (Gulf Coast Geology event) | Small | Educational event at local museum, focus on Mississippi fossils (e.g., petrified wood), casual |
| Mississippi Gulf Coast Gem & Mineral Show | Pascagoula, Mississippi, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | (MS Gulf Coast club) | Small/Medium | Club show on the coast, mix of rocks and handcrafted jewelry, relaxed vibe, often at a civic center |
Mississippi’s gem and mineral shows tend to be modest. The central Jackson show (if held) would be the primary gathering, typically hosted by the Mississippi Gem & Mineral Society with a comfortable mix of gems, minerals, and lapidary arts. The Gulf Coast might see a smaller club show or a geology day event tied to local science museums. These events have a relaxed, community feel – it’s as much about meeting fellow hobbyists as it is about buying specimens.
Missouri
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greater Kansas City Gem & Mineral Show | Kansas City, Missouri, USA | Mar 7 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | KC Gem Show | Large | Big regional show (covers KS/MO); 60+ retail dealers, separate wholesale area, lectures, very busy and diverse crowd (Update Show Dates All) |
| St. Louis Gem & Mineral Show (Rock Hobby Club) | Affton (St. Louis), Missouri, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | St. Louis Club | Medium | Long-running club show in St. Louis region, good mix of minerals, slabs, jewelry, family-friendly |
| Geode Fest (Keokuk area) | Hamilton, Illinois (near MO border) | Sept 20 – 21, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Keokuk Geode Fest | Medium | (Accessible to MO rockhounds in tri-state) – geode digging and swapping festival, outdoorsy, very casual (Update Show Dates All) |
| Springfield Missouri Gem & Mineral Show | Springfield, Missouri, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | (Springfield club page) | Small/Medium | Club show in Ozarks region, local dealers and a focus on teaching kids about rocks, relaxed |
| Joplin Tri-State Mineral Show | Joplin, Missouri, USA | June 16 – 18, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | (Tri-State G&MS at Joplin Museum) | Small/Medium | Annual show at Joplin History & Mineral Museum, free admission, focus on regional lead-zinc minerals, educational feel (Update Show Dates All) |
Missouri’s largest show is the KC Gem & Mineral Show each spring, which actually serves the whole Kansas City metro (including Kansas side) – it’s a big production with a busy show floor and special exhibits (Update Show Dates All). St. Louis’s club show is a staple for Eastern Missouri, emphasizing a welcoming club atmosphere. In the southwest, Joplin’s show (in the old Tri-State mining district) highlights local galena and sphalerite heritage and is held in conjunction with the museum – a niche but interesting event (Update Show Dates All). Missouri rockhounds also often trek to the Keokuk Geode Fest or other nearby state shows to get their fix. Overall, a mix of large-scale (KC) with lots of activity, and smaller hometown shows with a focus on regional minerals.
Montana
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Butte Mineral & Gem Show | Butte, Montana, USA | May 17 – 18, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Butte Gem & Mineral Club (Facebook) | Small/Medium | Annual show in historic Butte, affordable entry, children free – features Montana sapphires, gold panning, grab bags; friendly and folksy (Update Show Dates All) |
| Billings Gem & Fossil Show (example) | Billings, Montana, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (Billings Gem Club) | Small | Local show, mix of fossils (dinosaur country) and gems, casual setting at a community center |
| Bozeman Rockhound Swap (example) | Bozeman, Montana, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Bozeman club summer swap) | Small | Outdoor swap/trade among collectors, informal, often combined with a club picnic |
| Montana Council Rock & Gem Show (Federation) | Great Falls, Montana, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | Rocky Mountain Fed News | Medium | Statewide (RMFMS) rotating show when hosted in MT – multiple clubs participating, exhibits and field trips, collaborative vibe |
Montana’s shows are on the smaller side but full of local flavor. The Butte show put on by the Butte Mineral & Gem Club offers a great snapshot of “Treasure State” minerals – expect to see Montana sapphires and copper minerals, and to experience warm hospitality (kids under 12 get in free, etc.) (Update Show Dates All). Other cities like Billings and Great Falls have periodic shows or federation-hosted events, often rotating between states. The culture here leans heavily towards rockhounding – many Montanans hunt for their own sapphires and crystals – so shows often include a swap component or field trips. It’s a down-to-earth scene, often literally outdoors under the Big Sky.
Nebraska
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Gem & Mineral Show | Lincoln, Nebraska, USA | Apr 5 – 6, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | Lincoln GMS | Medium | 65th annual show in 2025, held with Midwest Federation convention – ~70 exhibits for club’s 70th anniversary, very celebratory, lots of family fun (Update Show Dates All) |
| Omaha Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Omaha, Nebraska, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | (Omaha club information) | Small/Medium | Club show potentially restarting, would feature regional fossils and prairie agates, casual atmosphere |
| River City Gem & Mineral Swap | Omaha, Nebraska, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Informal club swap) | Small | Rock swap among local collectors, informal tailgate setting |
Nebraska’s highlight event was the Lincoln Gem & Mineral Club’s show, which in 2025 doubled as the Midwest Federation (MWF) convention show (Update Show Dates All). That meant a larger turnout, special exhibits celebrating the club’s 70th year, and added excitement for attendees – yet it remained true to its roots as a friendly community show (with $8 two-day passes and kids free) (Update Show Dates All). Omaha’s club has been quieter recently, though efforts to revive shows or host swap meets are always brewing. Nebraskans love fossils (like their famous Ashfall beds fossils), so any local shows usually have a strong fossil presence alongside gems. The vibe: neighborly and enthusiastic, everyone is happy to talk about rocks.
Nevada
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Gem & Jewelry Show (JCK) | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA | May 31 – Jun 3, 2025 | JCK Las Vegas | Large (Trade) | Enormous trade show for jewelry industry, high-end, not open to general public (glittering booths, security guards – industry only) |
| Las Vegas Jewelry Week (multiple shows) | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA | Late May – early June 2025 | See events: JCK, AGTA, Couture, IWJG | Large | A cluster of upscale shows (AGTA, COUTURE, etc.) concurrently – caters to luxury gems/jewelry buyers, exclusive vibe (Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society Gem & Mineral Show) |
| Crystal Festival – Las Vegas | Las Vegas, Nevada, USA | Mar 15 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Crystal Festival LV | Medium | A more public-facing gem & crystal show, 50+ vendors, free entry, focuses on metaphysical crystals, very upbeat and inclusive (Update Show Dates All) |
| Reno Crystal Festival | Reno, Nevada, USA | Mar 29 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Crystal Festival Reno | Medium | Similar to LV Crystal Fest – free show with many rockhounds, “find your happy place” vibe, networking for local miners (Update Show Dates All) |
| Reno Gem & Mineral Society Show (Jackpot of Gems) | Reno, Nevada, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | RGMS “Jackpot of Gems” | Medium | Annual club show called Jackpot of Gems, dealers from around NV/CA, great displays (incl. fluorescent room), family-friendly with Nevada flair |
| Valley of Fire Rock Swap (example) | Overton, Nevada, USA | Feb 2025 (TBD) | (Informal rock swap at state park) | Small | Outdoor swap meetup near Valley of Fire, casual, rockhounds and lapidary enthusiasts trading finds |
Nevada’s show scene diverges between glitzy Las Vegas trade events and grassroots gem shows. In Vegas, late spring brings Jewelry Week, headlined by JCK Las Vegas (a massive jewelry-industry-only expo) and complementary shows like AGTA GemFair and Couture (Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society Gem & Mineral Show). These are polished, exclusive, and business-focused – not for hobbyists. To balance that, events like the Crystal Festival in Vegas and Reno offer the general public a chance to buy crystals, minerals, and gems in a fun, inclusive setting (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All). Up north, Reno’s “Jackpot of Gems” club show provides a more traditional gem show experience, celebrating Nevada’s minerals (turquoise, opal, etc.) in a family-friendly way. The overall vibe swings from high-end in Vegas to high-desert casual among the rockhound community.
New Hampshire
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gems of the Northeast Show (example) | Manchester, New Hampshire, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | (Example regional show) | Small/Medium | Would feature New England gems (quartz, beryl), if held – likely a casual hotel show |
| White Mountain Mineral Fest (example) | Conway, New Hampshire, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Local club or museum event) | Small | Informal gathering or sale at a rock shop or campground, rockhound-centric |
| Steele Hill Rock Swap (example) | Sanbornton, New Hampshire, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Steele Hill Resort event) | Small | Outdoor swap at a resort (this has happened in past), very relaxed, traders and families enjoying the summer |
New Hampshire does not have a large annual gem show on the scale of some neighboring states. Instead, rockhounds often attend shows in Massachusetts or Maine. Some smaller mineral sales or swaps occasionally occur in the White Mountains region or near popular collecting sites (for example, informal swaps at places like Steele Hill or group digs for smoky quartz in the White Mountains). These tend to be low-key and are often communicated within rockhound circles. In summary, NH’s gem events scene is quiet, homegrown, and intertwined with field trips and mineral club activities rather than big public expositions.
New Jersey
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Edison “NJ Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show” | Edison, New Jersey, USA | April 2025 (TBD) | NJ Mineral Show | Large | Huge expo-center show run by MAPS Expo – hundreds of dealers (minerals, fossils, gems, jewelry), very broad public attendance, from kids with $5 geodes to high-end collectors, lively market vibe |
| Franklin Mineral Show & Swap | Franklin, New Jersey, USA | April 2025 (TBD) | Franklin-Ogdensburg Minsoc | Medium | Famous fluorescent capital – swap and show at Franklin School, focus on local fluorescent minerals (Willemite, etc.), evening UV sessions, niche yet friendly atmosphere |
| Spring Mineralfest (PESA) | Macungie, Pennsylvania, USA (near NJ) | June 7, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | PESA Mineralfest | Medium | (Just across river in PA) – popular 1-day outdoor/indoor show with many NJ/PA dealers, tailgate plus indoor tables, casual and fun (Update Show Dates All) |
| Rutgers Geology Museum Open House (educational) | New Brunswick, NJ, USA | Jan 2025 (annual) | Rutgers Museum | Small | One-day event with lectures, mineral sales tables, great for students and families (educational focus) |
| Treasures of the Earth Show (example) | Wyckoff, New Jersey, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | (North Jersey club hypothetical) | Small | Would be a local club show if held – likely informal and community-based |
New Jersey’s standout is the big NJ Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show in Edison, often held in April. It’s one of the largest on the East Coast, filling a convention center with a bit of everything – high-end mineral specimens, dinosaurs, affordable tumbled stones, etc. – truly a show with a spectrum of vibes depending on which aisle you’re in (academic, commercial, and family fun all at once). By contrast, the Franklin show is a must for fluorescent mineral enthusiasts – a unique local-flavor event where the lights go off for the famous Franklin glow (and everyone “ooo’s” at the fluorescent rocks) (Update Show Dates All). Many NJ rockhounds also cross into PA for events like Mineralfest in Macungie (Update Show Dates All). All told, NJ offers both glow-in-the-dark magic in Franklin and big show bustle in Edison.
New Mexico
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Abq Gem & Mineral Club Show (“Treasures of the Earth”) | Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA | Mar 14 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Albuquerque G&M Club | Medium/Large | 53rd annual show at Expo NM fairgrounds, ~50 dealers, lots of local minerals (turquoise, fluorite), door prizes, very welcoming and educational (Update Show Dates All) |
| RMGM Albuquerque Fall Show (“ABQ Fall Gem Show”) | Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA | Oct 3 – 5, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | ABQ Fall Show (RMGM) | Medium | Newer fall show, free admission at fairgrounds, variety of gems/minerals largely retail, casual browsing environment (Update Show Dates All) |
| Socorro Mineral Symposium & Show | Socorro, New Mexico, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | NM Mineral Symposium | Medium | Annual symposium at NM Tech (Socorro) with associated mineral show – academic talks plus dealers, very scholarly vibe mixed with fun social events |
| Deming Rockhound Roundup | Deming, New Mexico, USA | Mar 2025 (TBD) | Deming Roundup | Medium | 4-day event in Rockhound State Park area, field trips to collect geodes & thunder eggs plus a tailgate show, rockhound festival atmosphere |
| Los Alamos Geological Day (example) | Los Alamos, New Mexico, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | (Los Alamos club/museum event) | Small | Science-focused event with local mineral displays, low-key but informative |
New Mexico’s gem & mineral happenings often emphasize the state’s rich geology. The Albuquerque Gem & Mineral Club’s spring show is a fixture – a vibrant three-day show at the Expo NM fairgrounds featuring a great mix of vendors and displays (Update Show Dates All). It’s very much a community event with a bit of something for everyone (from kids’ geode cracking to serious mineral specimens). Socorro’s November Mineral Symposium is world-renowned among mineralogists – more of a conference, but with a public dealer room that feels like a specialized mineral show (lots of one-of-a-kind minerals and brainy yet friendly attendees). Down south, Deming’s Rockhound Roundup blends field trips with a tailgate-style show – capturing the true rockhound spirit in the desert. All told, NM events combine academic depth (in places like Socorro) with good old rockhound camaraderie (Deming), and the Albuquerque shows sit pleasantly in between.
New York
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York City Gem & Mineral Show (“NYC Show”) | New York, New York, USA | Aug 8 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | NYC Mineralogical Club | Medium | Annual NYC show (hosted by NY Min Club) in Chelsea, moderate size but high-quality vendors, plus free lectures, sophisticated yet accessible (Update Show Dates All) |
| St. Lawrence County Rock & Mineral Show | Madrid, New York, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | St. Lawrence Club | Small/Medium | North Country’s club show, outdoors at a campground, relaxed, focus on local minerals (garnet, etc.), field trip vibe |
| Buffalo Geological Society Show | Hamburg (Buffalo), New York, USA | Mar 2025 (TBD) | BGS Show | Medium/Large | Big show in western NY, many exhibits (fossils from nearby Penn Dixie site), demonstrators, family-friendly large club show |
| Orange County Mineral Show (example) | Middletown, New York, USA | June 2025 (TBD) | (OCMS club info) | Small/Medium | Club show, regional dealers, casual atmosphere |
| Franklin Mineral Show (NJ) | Franklin, NJ, USA (near NY) | April 2025 (see NJ) | Franklin Min Soc. (for NY enthusiasts) | – | (Many NYC area collectors attend Franklin, NJ show for fluorescents) |
New York State has a spread of shows. In NYC, the New York Mineralogical Club’s show is notable – it’s not enormous, but considering space constraints in Manhattan, it’s a solid show with great material (and typically includes educational talks) (Update Show Dates All). Upstate, Buffalo’s show (hosted by the Buffalo Geological Society) is one of the larger club shows in the Northeast, drawing a big public turnout every spring. In the far north, the St. Lawrence club’s show is charmingly rural – rockhounds camp out and swap stories by the bonfire. Many New Yorkers also hop over to shows in adjacent states (NJ’s Franklin show or the big Springfield, MA show). The vibe ranges from urbane in NYC – minerals under the city lights – to rustic in the Adirondacks, where traders might accept maple syrup as currency (kidding, perhaps!).
North Carolina
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| MAGMA 30th Gem & Mineral Show | Swannanoa, North Carolina, USA | Mar 21 – 23, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | MAGMA Show Info | Medium | Mountain Area Gem & Mineral Assoc.’s show – free admission, outdoors at Shrine Club, “affordable treasures to finest gems” mix, very inclusive and family-friendly (food trucks, etc.) (Update Show Dates All) |
| Catawba Valley Gem & Mineral Show | Hickory, North Carolina, USA | Mar 28 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | CVGMC Show | Medium | Well-established 3-day show, $6 all-weekend ticket, many exhibits and dealers, hands-on kids’ area, strong community turnout (Update Show Dates All) |
| Tar Heel Gem & Mineral Show | Raleigh, North Carolina, USA | Mar 28 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Tar Heel Club Show | Medium | Annual show at state fairgrounds, multiple dealers, geode cracking, club member demos (wire wrapping, etc.), casual and educational (Update Show Dates All) |
| Franklin, NC Gem & Mineral Show (Spring) | Franklin, North Carolina, USA | May 9 – 11, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Franklin Gem Society | Medium | “Mother’s Day Weekend” show, small admission, local and traveling dealers, known for native rubies/sapphires, friendly small-town vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
| Franklin, NC Gem & Jewelry Show (Summer) | Franklin, North Carolina, USA | July 25 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Franklin Chamber Show | Medium | Part of Franklin’s series of summer gem shows, lots of jewelry and rough gems, tourist-friendly, casual shopping atmosphere (Update Show Dates All) |
| Graves Mountain Rock Swap & Dig (GA/SC border) | Lincolnton, GA (near NC) | Oct 2025 (see GA) | (See GA section for Graves Mtn) | – | – (Many Carolinas rockhounds attend Graves Mtn swap – noted in GA.) |
North Carolina, famous for its emeralds and sapphires, has a very active gem show circuit especially in the western part of the state. Franklin, NC is known as the “Gem Capital of the World” and hosts multiple shows – spring, summer, and fall – that draw hobbyists and tourists (expect faceted sapphires, ruby jewelry, and buckets of native dirt for sale to sift through). In the Asheville area, the MAGMA show in Swannanoa (2025 was their 30th) is an open-air event with a communal feel – free to attend and offering everything from $1 minerals to museum pieces (Update Show Dates All). The Hickory show and Raleigh (Tar Heel) show are solid club-run events that anchor the central part of the state (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All), each with a welcoming atmosphere and lots of kids’ activities. In short: NC shows combine Southern hospitality with gemstone excitement – you might hear an amplified voice announcing a door prize one minute and a screen shaking with gravel in the “gem mine” the next.
North Dakota
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Williston Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Williston, North Dakota, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | (NW Dakota Rock Club) | Small | Likely a small club show or tailgate, featuring local fossils (dinosaur finds) and agates, informal setting |
| Fargo “Gem & Mineral Day” (example) | Fargo, North Dakota, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Fargo club workshop open house) | Tiny | Possibly a public open house at a club workshop or museum, very casual |
| Bismarck Rock Swap (example) | Bismarck, North Dakota, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Local rockhounds meetup) | Tiny | Informal swap among collectors, perhaps at a park or fair, friendly but small scale |
North Dakota does not have prominent large gem shows. Any events are likely club-driven and on a smaller scale. Rock and mineral enthusiasts in ND often travel to shows in neighboring states (South Dakota’s shows or the Twin Cities in Minnesota) for a bigger experience. Locally, gatherings might be as simple as a rock club setting up tables at a community fair or a “bring and brag” swap meet. The interest in minerals often ties into North Dakota’s fossils (e.g., ammonites from the Pembina Gorge) and Lake Superior agates that find their way west. Expect any ND happening to be humble, friendly, and perhaps advertised by word-of-mouth among the state’s small rockhound community.
Ohio
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stark County Gem & Mineral Show | Canton, Ohio, USA | Mar 29 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Stark County G&M Club | Medium | Annual show with multiple dealers selling rocks, fossils, jewelry; silent auctions for kids and adults, geode cracking, very family-oriented event (Update Show Dates All) |
| Cincinnati GeoFair | Sharonville (Cincinnati), Ohio, USA | May 2025 (TBD) | GeoFair | Large | One of the Midwest’s biggest fossil and mineral shows, lots of public attendees, heavy emphasis on fossils (Cincinnati’s specialty) plus gems, well-organized and bustling |
| Cleveland Area “Parma” Show (example) | Parma, Ohio, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | (Cleveland club event) | Medium | A club show likely in a school gym, showcases area’s minerals (e.g., Ohio flint), casual atmosphere |
| Dayton Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Dayton, Ohio, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | (Dayton club info) | Medium | Club-run show, known for good displays and mix of minerals, lapidary demos, friendly vibe |
| Summit Lapidary “Gemboree” | Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, USA | Apr 26 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Akron Mineral Society & Summit Lapidary | Medium | Combined Akron area clubs’ show called “Gemboree,” ~38 vendors, crafts for children, demonstrations – community-centric and lively (Update Show Dates All) |
Ohio has a rich rockhound community with several significant shows. GeoFair in Cincinnati is a long-running show that attracts attendees from multiple states – famous for its fossils (the Cincinnati area is fossil heaven) but also plenty of minerals and gems; it feels almost like a mini-convention with exhibits and lectures along with sales. Up north, clubs in Cleveland/Akron put on shows like the Akron Gemboree (Update Show Dates All), which are well-attended and family friendly. Canton’s Stark County show is another great example of a solid local show with all the trimmings (geode cracker, door prizes, etc.) (Update Show Dates All). Expect Ohio shows to be well-organized (Midwestern efficiency!) yet warm and welcoming – and don’t be surprised if you see a table of fluorescent Ohio minerals or a mastodon tooth in the mix.
Oklahoma
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ada Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show | Ada, Oklahoma, USA | Mar 28 – 29, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Ada GMFC | Small/Medium | Free admission show in Ada agri-plex, fluorescent mineral display, gem dig for kids, relaxed local vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
| Tulsa Rock & Mineral Show (Chucalissa Show) | Tulsa, Oklahoma, USA | June 19 – 20, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Tulsa Rock & Mineral Society (Facebook) | Medium | 2nd annual show in Tulsa at event center, free entry, indoor/outdoor booths, mix of vendors from region, very welcoming atmosphere (Update Show Dates All) (see Gem Faire reference) |
| Oklahoma City Gem & Mineral Show | Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, USA | Oct 24 – 26, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | OKC Gem & Mineral Society | Medium/Large | “Treasures of the Earth” show – 40 vendors, fluorescents, big children’s area, held at fair park, lively and educational (Update Show Dates All) |
| Enid Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Enid, Oklahoma, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (Enid Gem Club) | Small | Likely a small club show or swap, casual, local collectors of Oklahoma selenite and rose rocks |
Oklahoma’s rock clubs keep the show scene active. The Ada show in south-central OK is a free, family-friendly affair with fun touches like a fluorescent minerals room and a kids’ treasure dig (Update Show Dates All). In the big cities, Tulsa and Oklahoma City have growing shows: OKC’s October show has dozens of dealers and a strong educational slant (scouts and kids swarm the place) (Update Show Dates All). Tulsa’s show, recently revived, offers a similar mix in the summer. Expect to see plenty of Oklahoma’s state treasures (barite “rose rocks,” hourglass selenite from the Salt Plains) alongside general gems. The atmosphere is very welcoming – true to Oklahoma’s down-home style, most shows are free or low-cost to attend and everyone is invited to join the fun.
Oregon
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tualatin Valley Gem Club Show | Forest Grove, Oregon, USA | Mar 7 – 9, 2025 | TVGC Show | Medium | Annual show west of Portland, $1 admission, features lots of local Oregon rock (thundereggs, sunstones), kids’ corner and auctions, very community-oriented (Update Show Dates All) |
| Mt. Hood Rock Club Show (example) | Portland (Gresham), Oregon, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (Mt. Hood Rock Club) | Small/Medium | Club show in Portland area, usually free admission, focus on member collections and local finds, friendly club vibe |
| Prineville Rockhound Pow Wow | Prineville, Oregon, USA | June 19 – 22, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Prineville Pow Wow | Medium | 4-day outdoor show plus daily field trips in Central OR (thunderegg central!), free admission, strong rockhound spirit – part show, part dig fest (Update Show Dates All) |
| Madras Rock & Gem Show | Madras, Oregon, USA | June 26 – 29, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Madras Gem Show (contact) | Medium | All-ages free show with field trips to famous collecting sites (e.g., Richardson’s Ranch), very interactive and fun for rockhounds (Update Show Dates All) |
| West Coast Gem & Mineral Show (Fall) – see CA | Santa Ana, CA (serves OR) | See California (Oct) | (Many OR dealers go to CA shows) | – | – |
| Grants Pass Rogue Gem & Geology Show | Grants Pass, Oregon, USA | Apr 26 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Rogue Gem & Geology Club | Medium | Southern OR’s show, free entry, vendors + raffle, lapidary demos, relaxed vibe with lots of local jasper and petrified wood on sale (Update Show Dates All) |
| Springfield Thunderegg Show (example) | Springfield, Oregon, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Springfield club event) | Small | Focused on Oregon’s state rock (thundereggs), local swap meet style, very casual |
Oregon’s rockhounding culture is legendary, and the shows reflect that. Many are tied to field trips – the Prineville Pow Wow and Madras Show in June turn into multi-day adventures where you can dig during the day and shop/trade in the evening (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All). These have a fun, almost festival-like atmosphere (campers, BBQs, and buckets of thunder eggs). In the Portland area, clubs like Tualatin Valley host classic shows with low entry fees and high community engagement – expect kids enthusiastically “fishing” for polished rocks and local miners showcasing recent agate finds. Southern Oregon’s Rogue club show and others are similarly inviting. In sum: Oregon shows are laid-back and very much by-and-for rockhounds, with Oregon’s colorful agates, jaspers, and sunstones taking center stage.
Pennsylvania
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia Mineral Treasures Show (Philly Mineralogical & DVPS) | Plymouth Meeting, PA, USA | Mar 29 – 30, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Philly Mineral Show | Medium | Jointly run by mineral and fossil societies – lots of quality mineral and fossil dealers, lectures, kids’ activities (micromounting demos, etc.), well-balanced and family-friendly (Update Show Dates All) |
| Gem Miner's Jubilee (Summer) | Lebanon, Pennsylvania, USA | Aug 15 – 17, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Gem Miner's Jubilee | Large | Major regional show with two wholesale rooms and outdoor tailgaters, draws crowds from Mid-Atlantic; wide range from crystals and beads to fossils, a bit of something for everyone, semi-wholesale vibe (Update Show Dates All) |
| Gem Miner's Holiday Show | Lebanon, Pennsylvania, USA | Nov 14 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Gem Miner's Holiday | Large | Smaller than Jubilee but still significant – pre-holiday gem/jewelry focus, lots of gift shoppers, festive mood (Update Show Dates All) |
| MACC Mineralfest (Spring) | Macungie, Pennsylvania, USA | June 7, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Mineralfest (PESA/PESA) | Medium | One-day show with over 50 dealers, indoor & outdoor setup, $2 admission, known for great bargains and a friendly flea-market vibe among collectors (Update Show Dates All) |
| Rock & Mineral Show – West Chester U. (example) | West Chester, PA, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | (University Geology Dept. open house) | Small | Educational open house with mineral sale tables, student and faculty presentations, low-key academic atmosphere |
| Tuscarora Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show | Oaks (Philadelphia area), PA, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | Tuscarora Show | Medium | Suburban Philly show by Tuscarora Lapidary Society – emphasis on lapidary arts and jewelry, many demonstrations, a refined yet welcoming vibe |
Pennsylvania has a rich variety of shows. The “Philly Mineral Treasures” show every spring is a collaboration between the Philadelphia Mineral Society and the Delaware Valley Paleontological Society – a great blend of minerals and fossils in one event (Update Show Dates All). The mid-state is home to the Gem Miner’s shows in Lebanon (Jubilee in summer, Holiday in fall), which are among the larger shows in the East, attracting dealers and attendees from multiple states (Update Show Dates All). These have a bit more commercial feel (especially Jubilee with its wholesale sections), but still plenty of public appeal (workshops, gold panning demos, etc.). For quick fun, the one-day Mineralfest in Macungie is beloved by collectors for its tailgate atmosphere and low cost (Update Show Dates All). Whether you’re hunting tri-state minerals like pyrite and quartz or just Christmas shopping for gems, PA’s shows offer a friendly environment with a touch of East Coast hustle-bustle.
Rhode Island
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rhode Island Mineral Hunters Show (example) | Providence, Rhode Island, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (RI Mineral Hunters club) | Small | Likely a small club showcase, perhaps part of a school or nature center event, informal |
| Rocks & Fossils at the Museum (example) | Providence, Rhode Island, USA | Feb 2025 (TBD) | (RISD/Natural History Museum event) | Small | Educational event where local collectors display specimens at museum, interactive for kids, very casual |
| South County Gem & Mineral Swap (example) | Kingston, Rhode Island, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Informal swap via club meetups) | Tiny | A handful of hobbyists trading local beach agates and quartz, laid-back |
Rhode Island, being a small state, doesn’t have large-scale gem shows of its own in recent years. Enthusiasts typically travel to neighboring Connecticut or Massachusetts for bigger events. However, local clubs or museums may host small “mineral days” or swap meets. Any such events in Rhode Island would be intimate and educational – for example, a display day at the Providence Museum of Natural History or a rock swap in someone’s backyard. In short, Rhode Islanders share their passion in low-key ways, and the community is tight-knit. Don’t expect big crowds – do expect a warm welcome if you find one of these gatherings.
South Carolina
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Columbia Gem & Mineral Show | Columbia, South Carolina, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | Columbia Gem & Mineral Society | Medium | Annual show at fairgrounds, mix of Southeast dealers, demonstrations (cabochon cutting, etc.), friendly and educational vibe |
| Greenville Gemstone Jubilee (example) | Greenville, South Carolina, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Greenville club or promoter event) | Medium | Could be a growing show with emphasis on gems and jewelry for the public, likely held in an event hall, a bit of a commercial feel mixed with club hospitality |
| Lowcountry Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Charleston, SC, USA | May 2025 (TBD) | (Lowcountry Gem Club) | Small/Medium | Newer club show possibly in Charleston area, laid-back coastal vibe, incorporating fossils (Megalodon teeth!) and beach finds |
| Aiken-Augusta Gem, Mineral & Fossil Show | Augusta, GA (near Aiken, SC), USA | Mar 7 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Aiken/Augusta Show | Medium | Joint GA-SC show (see Georgia) – conveniently serves western SC too; very family-friendly and interactive (Update Show Dates All) |
South Carolina’s midlands (Columbia) show and upstate (Greenville) potential shows offer opportunities to see gems and minerals without traveling far. The Columbia show is a solid event each year, pulling in dealers from across the Southeast and focusing on amethyst (SC’s state gemstone) and other regional finds. Coastal SC doesn’t have a big gem show yet, but any event there would likely incorporate the area’s fossil heritage (like shark teeth). A lot of SC rockhounds also attend the Aiken/Augusta show just over the border in Georgia (Update Show Dates All). The atmosphere at SC shows is relaxed and welcoming, with a notable enthusiasm for fossils (there’s always someone selling Megalodon shark teeth from SC rivers) alongside gems.
South Dakota
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rapid City Gem & Mineral Show (WDGMS) | Rapid City, South Dakota, USA | July 26 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Western Dakota GMS | Medium | 50th anniversary show in 2025, ~30 vendors, held at fairgrounds, emphasis on Black Hills minerals (like Fairburn agates), free raffles every half hour – celebratory and community-focused (Update Show Dates All) |
| Sioux Empire Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Sioux Falls, SD, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | (Sioux Empire Gem & Mineral Society) | Small/Medium | Club show in eastern SD, likely modest but with a good variety (Thunderbeast ammonites, prairie agates), casual atmosphere |
| Black Hills Jewelry & Mineral Show (example) | Hill City, SD, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Event during Sturgis Rally perhaps) | Small | Possibly a small show or sale coinciding with tourist season, emphasis on Black Hills gold/quartz, more of a retail tourist vibe |
| Fairburn Agate Rock Swap (example) | Scenic, SD, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Informal agate swap on prairie) | Tiny | Hard-core agate collectors meeting on the prairie to trade Fairburn agates, very informal and niche |
South Dakota might not have many large shows, but the Western Dakota (Rapid City) club made their 50th annual show in 2025 a big deal – reflecting decades of rockhounding in the Black Hills (Update Show Dates All). Expect to see beautiful Fairburn agates and Black Hills gold ore among the offerings. The vibe there is very friendly and local – lots of folks who’ve known each other for years, excited to share with newcomers. Sioux Falls has a smaller club that occasionally hosts shows, and there are often gem and mineral dealers set up during events like the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally to catch tourists (those have more of a commercial flavor). Overall, South Dakota’s gem gatherings highlight the state’s unique treasures (like agates and fossils) in a welcoming, down-home setting.
Tennessee
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Middle Tennessee Gem & Mineral Show (MTGMS) | Nashville (Franklin), Tennessee, USA | Dec 2025 (early Dec, TBD) | MTGMS Show | Medium/Large | Big annual show near Nashville, dozens of vendors, many lapidary demonstrations, schoolkids attend on field trips, lively and educational |
| Memphis Mineral, Fossil, Jewelry Show (Memphis Rockhound) | Memphis, Tennessee, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | Memphis Rockhound News | Medium | Known as “Memphis Mineral, Fossil, Jewelry Show,” a great variety including quartz, minerals, and Southern fossils; friendly club-run show, good public turnout |
| Knoxville Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Knoxville, Tennessee, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Knoxville Gem & Mineral Society) | Medium | Would likely be a decent-sized club show if held, as Knoxville has an active club; would feature regional minerals (like Tennessee pearls, geodes) with a welcoming vibe |
| Grinder’s Switch Rock Swap (example) | Centerville, Tennessee, USA | Summer 2025 (TBD) | (Informal swap via MTGMS) | Small | Outdoor rock swap/picnic by club members, very casual, sharing finds like Tennessee fossils and quartz geodes |
In Tennessee, the MTGMS (Nashville) show in Franklin is a highlight at the end of the year, often drawing a large crowd from across the state – it’s a well-run show with plenty to buy and lots of demonstrations so you might see how wire-wrapped jewelry is made or a sphere being ground right before your eyes. Memphis’s show in the spring is another vibrant event, reflecting that city’s enthusiastic rock club; you’ll see a blend of minerals and cool fossils (Mississippi River fossils, etc.) and a lot of kids learning about geology. The overall vibe in Tennessee shows is “Southern hospitality meets rockhounding” – folks are polite, eager to teach newcomers, and proud of local specialties like flawless quartz crystals from the copper mines or ribbons of state pearls.
Texas
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| InterGem Houston Show | Houston, Texas, USA | Year-round (multiple 2025 dates) | InterGem Houston | Large (Recurring) | Frequent trade/public show with heavy focus on jewelry, beads, and gems; sprawling marketplace atmosphere, mostly retail/wholesale mix |
| Austin Gem & Mineral Society Show | Austin, Texas, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | AGMS Show | Large | Long-running show “Gem Capers,” ~30-40 dealers, competitive exhibits, gems, minerals, fossils, very strong educational component and big public attendance (one of TX’s best club shows) |
| Dallas Gem & Mineral Show (IGEM) | Dallas, Texas, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | Dallas G&M Club | Medium | Annual club show, not as large as Houston/Austin, but features good mix of dealers and club exhibits; friendly atmosphere, good for families |
| Southwest Gem & Mineral Society Show | San Antonio, Texas, USA | Oct 5 – 6, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | SWGMS Fiesta of Gems | Medium | “Fiesta of Gems” – 63rd annual in 2025, modest entry fee, ~26 dealers, demos (make your own cab), very community-centric with a fiesta flair (Update Show Dates All) |
| Big Spring Prospectors Club Show (example) | Big Spring, Texas, USA | May 2025 (TBD) | (West Texas club) | Small | Regional West Texas show, likely in an armory or hall, with lots of petrified wood and plume agates from local deserts; casual and cordial |
| TGMS – Texas Gulf Coast Show (example) | Corpus Christi, Texas, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Coastal Bend club) | Small/Medium | Coastal Texas show, mix of seashells, fossils (mosasaur) and gems, friendly local vibe |
| Lone Star Fossil & Mineral Expo (example) | Dallas/Fort Worth, TX, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (DFW paleo club event) | Medium | Focused on fossils with some minerals, educational lectures, enthusiast crowd |
Texas, being huge, has many shows. Houston sees numerous InterGem shows and an annual Humble (HGMS) show – these cater to large urban audiences, often emphasizing jewelry and beads with some minerals. Austin’s “Gem Capers” is a standout club show known for quality exhibits and wide public appeal, effectively bridging the gap between education and commerce. San Antonio’s Fiesta of Gems is a charming event with the flavor of the city – not huge, but long-lived and friendly (Update Show Dates All). Across Texas, from Dallas to West Texas, there are club shows sprinkled throughout, each reflecting local interests (e.g., agates in West Texas, fossils on the Gulf Coast). The Texas show vibe ranges from big-city hustle in Houston to laid-back country in smaller towns, but at all of them, you’ll feel that famous Texas enthusiasm – and probably see more petrified wood and oil-deposit minerals than you would elsewhere!
Utah
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gem Faire Salt Lake City (Sandy) | Sandy, Utah, USA | Apr 4 – 6, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Gem Faire Sandy | Large | Big traveling show stops in Utah – lots of bead, crystal, and jewelry vendors, bustling commercial vibe, popular with hobbyists and craft makers (Update Show Dates All) |
| Crystal Festival – Roosevelt | Roosevelt, Utah, USA | May 3 – 4, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Crystal Festival UT | Medium | Regional rock and gem show – free admission, blends rockhounding community with metaphysical crowd, workshops and classes offered, very upbeat and inclusive (Update Show Dates All) |
| Crystal Festival – Hurricane (Fall) | Hurricane, Utah, USA | Nov 7 – 8, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Crystal Festival UT | Medium | 11th annual Southern Utah Rock & Gem Show – celebratory vibe, marking 11 years of growth, rockhound trips tie-in, fun community event (Update Show Dates All) |
| Wasatch Gem Society Show | South Jordan, Utah, USA | Apr 25 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Wasatch Gem Society | Medium/Large | Big club show in Salt Lake area, small admission fee, many dealers, door prizes, kids’ corner etc. – solid family-friendly show with lots of local rockhounds participating (Update Show Dates All) |
| Cache Rock & Gem Club Show | Logan, Utah, USA | May 16 – 18, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Cache Rock Club | Medium | Northern Utah’s show, $3 entry or $10 family, includes displays, door prizes, UV fluorescence room; community feel with educational exhibits (Update Show Dates All) |
| Moab Rock & Gem Show (Crystal Festival) | Moab, Utah, USA | June 7 – 8, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Crystal Festival UT | Medium | Part of the Crystal Festival circuit – free show in Moab (first year in 2025), drawing rockhounds and tourists; scenic setting, very friendly vibe bridging rock collecting and crystal healing communities (Update Show Dates All) |
Utah’s gem show scene has expanded in recent years. The Wasatch Gem Society’s spring show in the Salt Lake area is a staple for local collectors – a great all-around show with an active club presence (Update Show Dates All). Meanwhile, a series of Crystal Festival events (organized by a local enthusiast) have popped up around Utah – Roosevelt, Moab, Hurricane – aiming to be free, fun rock shows with a twist of metaphysical and lots of community engagement (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All). These have proven popular and give a modern spin to the traditional rock show. Gem Faire also brings a heavy retail presence to town annually, satisfying the bead and jewelry crowd (Update Show Dates All). In sum, Utah offers both classic club shows (with kids panning for topaz and jasper) and new-wave gem festivals (with sound baths among the geodes) – all against the backdrop of Utah’s stunning geology.
Vermont
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burlington Gem & Mineral Show | Essex Junction, Vermont, USA | July 19 – 20, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Burlington Gem & Mineral Club | Medium | 44th annual Champlain Valley show – biggest in VT, affordable entry, thousands of specimens from 30+ vendors, a true gem in a small state, very family-friendly and educational (Update Show Dates All) |
| Southwestern VT Mineral & Gem Show | Bennington, Vermont, USA | May 17 – 18, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | SW Vermont Club (Facebook) | Small/Medium | 2nd annual show in 2025, $5 adult entry, kids free, good local turnout, friendly show with mix of local finds and broader material (Update Show Dates All) |
| Rutland Rock, Gem & Coin Show (example) | Rutland, Vermont, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | (Local club or coin club joint show) | Small | Possibly combined with coin show, small but interesting mix of hobbies, casual atmosphere |
| Vermont Golden Dome Gem Show (fictional example) | Montpelier, VT, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Hypothetical event) | Small | (If existed, likely a small gathering possibly at a state park or fair, informal) |
Vermont’s premier event is the Champlain Valley show in Burlington (Essex Jct.), which has grown into a robust regional show attracting folks from New York and New England (Update Show Dates All). It’s known for its warm atmosphere and impressive array of specimens relative to Vermont’s size – you’ll find everything from Quebec fossils to Vermont grossular garnets. A newer show in Bennington (Southwestern VT) is introducing more Vermonters to the hobby and is well-received locally (Update Show Dates All). Vermont shows maintain a down-to-earth, educational feel (lots of geologists around!) and often have beautiful handmade craft elements too (wood carvings, etc.). And because it’s Vermont, you might just leave with maple syrup candy along with your trilobite.
Virginia
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia Beach Treasures of the Earth Show | Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA | Mar 2025 (TBD) | Treasures of the Earth | Large | Big commercial show (recurs 3x/year) with lots of jewelry, crystals, and some fossils/minerals; caters to public and semi-precious stone shoppers, busy and retail-focused |
| Northern Virginia Mineral Club Show (GMU Showcase) | Fairfax, Virginia, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | NoVa Mineral Club Show | Medium | Annual show at George Mason University, strong on educational exhibits (Smithsonian often contributes specimens), mix of local and national dealers, refined yet friendly vibe |
| Richmond G&M Society Show | Richmond, Virginia, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | Richmond GMS | Medium | Club show with long history, variety of gems and minerals, demonstrations (faceting, cabbing), family atmosphere |
| Giant Delaplane Show (example) | Delaplane, Virginia, USA | June 2025 (TBD) | (Example large outdoor show at winery) | Medium | Possibly a festival-style event combining wine and gems (Virginia has done “gems and jams” events); scenic, social vibe |
| Roanoke Valley Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Salem (Roanoke), VA, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Roanoke Club) | Small/Medium | Club show, regional dealers, friendly and fairly casual |
Virginia sees both commercial shows (like the Treasures of the Earth series) and excellent club shows. The Treasures of the Earth shows (Virginia Beach, etc.) happen multiple times a year and feel more like large gem fairs with a strong retail slant – lots of cut stones and jewelry for sale. In contrast, the Northern Virginia Mineral Club’s show and the Richmond show are rooted in education and hobbyist culture – you’ll find museum collaborations, kids’ activities, and knowledgeable club members eager to talk about minerals. Virginia is known for minerals like amazonite and amethyst, and these make appearances at shows. The state’s events overall balance the polish of the gem trade with the passion of amateur rockhounds, all with a dose of Southern hospitality.
Washington
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington (East KingCo) Rock & Gem Show | Issaquah, Washington, USA | Mar 1 – 2, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | East KingCo Rock Club | Medium | Club show with 30 dealers, many interactive elements (“What’s My Rock?” station, kids’ auctions), low admission, very community and family oriented (Update Show Dates All) |
| Gem Faire Seattle (Bellevue) | Bellevue, Washington, USA | Nov 2025 (TBD) | Gem Faire Seattle | Large | Major commercial gem show in metro Seattle – lots of beads, gems, crystals at wholesale prices; high foot traffic, shopper’s paradise vibe |
| Puyallup Gem & Jewelry Show (Gem Faire) | Puyallup, Washington, USA | Jun 14 – 16, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Gem Faire Puyallup | Large | Another Gem Faire stop, serving WA state fairgrounds, similar bead/gem emphasis with large turnout (Update Show Dates All) |
| Rock & Arrowhead Club Show (Yakima) | Yakima, Washington, USA | April 2025 (TBD) | Yakima Rock Club (Facebook) | Small/Medium | Club show in Central WA, features thundereggs, jaspers, local petrified wood, friendly small-town feel |
| Seattle Mineral Market | Seattle, Washington, USA | May 17 – 18, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Seattle Mineral Market (Facebook) | Medium | Annual weekend show in Hangar 30, Magnuson Park – about 60 dealers, $5–$7 admission, mix of minerals, fossils, gems; casual but organized, lots of local collectors and kids (free rocks for kids) (Update Show Dates All) |
| Rock Rollers Club Show (Spokane) | Spokane, Washington, USA | March 2025 (TBD) | Spokane Rock Rollers | Medium | Long-running show (over 60 years) in Eastern WA, good public attendance, demonstrations and kids’ activities, welcoming and educational |
Washington state enjoys a variety of shows. On the west side, the club shows like East KingCo’s in Issaquah are beloved for their interactive elements – they turn a school gym into a wonderland of rocks for a weekend (Update Show Dates All). Seattle has a unique Mineral Market in May, which is like a pop-up mineral show with a casual feel but great diversity of material (and even food trucks outside!). The big traveling Gem Faires hit the Seattle area as well (Bellevue and Puyallup), bringing a more commercial energy – lots of gem and bead shoppers filtering through. Over in Spokane and Yakima, strong rock clubs keep the hobby thriving with annual shows that emphasize local finds (like Ellensburg blue agates or Saddle Mountain petrified wood). Whether you’re in high-tech Seattle or rural Yakima, Washington shows maintain a Pacific Northwest friendliness – everyone’s excited to share a cup of coffee and a story about the latest jasper nodule they cut.
West Virginia
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Virginia Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Morgantown, West Virginia, USA | Oct 2025 (TBD) | (Morgantown club or WVU Geology Dept.) | Small | Possibly a small show or open house at WVU, student and club displays, low-key academic atmosphere |
| Huntington Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Huntington, West Virginia, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (Tri-State area club event) | Small | Likely informal, with folks from KY/OH also participating, community-center vibe |
| Mineral & Fossil Weekend – Oglebay (example) | Wheeling, WV, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | Oglebay Park Fossil Weekend | Small | Park event focusing on local fossils and minerals, educational for families, casual and outdoors |
West Virginia does not have large gem shows of its own; rockhounds often travel to shows in neighboring states (Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia). Any in-state events are typically tied to universities or nature centers. The geology departments at WVU or Marshall sometimes host mineral sales or open houses. The general vibe at any WV gathering would be informal and educational – sharing local finds like coal fossils or quartz crystals from the Appalachians. West Virginians may not have a big show, but the passion for rocks runs deep in those hills, often expressed in field trips and club meetings rather than big conventions.
Wisconsin
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Madison Gem & Mineral Club Show | Madison, Wisconsin, USA | Sept 2025 (TBD) | Madison Gem & Mineral Club | Medium | Annual show at local community college, nice variety of dealers and club displays (Wisconsin minerals like galena, etc.), laid-back and educational |
| Kettle Moraine Geological Society Show | West Bend, Wisconsin, USA | Mar 8 – 9, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Kettle Moraine GS (Facebook) | Medium | Held at county fairgrounds, $4 adult entry, features many Midwest dealers, scout merit badge booth, and free admission for kids in uniform – family-friendly and engaging (Update Show Dates All) |
| Chippewa Valley Gem & Mineral Show | Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA | Apr 26 – 27, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | CVGMS Show (Facebook) | Medium | Free admission show with lots of interactive fun (kids’ crafts, fluorescents, demos) and a variety of local and regional material – very inviting atmosphere (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) |
| Wisconsin Geological Society Show | Waukesha, Wisconsin, USA | May 17 – 18, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All) | WGS Show | Medium | Rock, Gem, Fossil & Jewelry Show with modest admission, mix of dealers and club sales, strong emphasis on education (displays, kid’s activities) – a fun event for all ages (Update Show Dates All) |
| Heart of Wisconsin Gem & Mineral Show (example) | Marshfield, WI, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (Central WI club) | Small | Likely a small club show/swap, relaxed, focusing on local glacial gems and Lake Superior agates |
Wisconsin’s clubs are very active in organizing shows. The Kettle Moraine show in West Bend each spring is a good example: plenty of local flavor and youth involvement (Scouts in uniform get in free, etc.) (Update Show Dates All). The Eau Claire show (Chippewa Valley) stands out for being free and jam-packed with activities – they turn it into a hands-on science and fun fair of sorts (Update Show Dates All). Milwaukee’s WGS show and Madison’s show cater to the populous southeastern and central parts of the state, offering great mixes of minerals, fossils (Wisconsin’s famous Mazon Creek fossils often show up), and lapidary arts. Wisconsin shows embody the Midwest rockhound ethic: friendly, educational, and community-centered, often fueled by brats and cheese curds (it’s Wisconsin, after all!).
Wyoming
| Event Name | Location (City, State, Country) | Dates | Website/Source | Est. Size | Vibe Check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wyoming State Mineral & Gem Show | Cody, Wyoming, USA | Aug 2025 (TBD) | (WY State Rock Club – rotating annual show) | Medium | Annual state rock show (hosted by different local club each year, e.g., Cody in 2025) – brings together rockhounds statewide, features WY jade, fossils, etc., friendly “reunion” atmosphere |
| Cheyenne Mineral & Gem Show (example) | Cheyenne, Wyoming, USA | June 2025 (TBD) | (Cheyenne Mineral Society) | Small/Medium | Likely a club show or tailgate in Cheyenne, informal, plenty of local petrified wood and agates, welcoming to I-80 travelers too |
| Kemmerer Fossil Fest & Gem Show | Kemmerer, Wyoming, USA | June 13 – 14, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Fossil Oasis Expo | Medium | 2nd annual Kemmerer show in fossil fish capital – part Father’s Day weekend festival, $2 adult entry, fossil digs, live music, fun mix of science and community fair vibes (Update Show Dates All) |
| Casper Rock Club Show (example) | Casper, Wyoming, USA | Apr 2025 (TBD) | (Natrona County Rockhounds) | Small | Local show focusing on Wyoming curios (dinosaur bones, Jadeite from Jeffrey City, etc.), casual and neighborly |
| Sublette County Rock & Gem Show | Big Piney, Wyoming, USA | June 13 – 15, 2025 (Update Show Dates All) | Sublette County Rock Hounds (Facebook) | Medium | 9th annual show in 2025, includes field trips, demonstrators (Mr. Bones the dino puppeteer!), and lots of Wyoming jade and opal – lively small-town event with strong rockhound participation (Update Show Dates All) |
Wyoming, with its vast open spaces, has a tight-knit rockhound community. The state show rotates locations; whenever it occurs (Cody in our example), folks from all over Wyoming converge with their best jade, agates, and fossils – it’s as much a social gathering as a commercial show. The Kemmerer event (started recently) capitalizes on the area’s fossil fish fame and mixes fun (live music, food trucks) with fossils and gems (Update Show Dates All). Sublette County’s show in Big Piney is a gem for its inclusion of quirky attractions (like a life-size dinosaur puppet, “Mr. Bones”) to draw in families (Update Show Dates All). Across Wyoming shows, the vibe is enthusiastic and welcoming – a lot of inter-generational knowledge-sharing (grandpa showing grandson how to polish a piece of jade, etc.) in an ambiance that’s part county fair, part geology class, and 100% genuine.
Sources: The above information was compiled from numerous gem & mineral club announcements, show calendars, and rockhound event listings, including the 2025 Show Dates calendar by Rock & Gem magazine (Update Show Dates All) (Update Show Dates All), regional show directories (XpoPress North America directory (Canada West Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule) (Canada East Provinces - 2021 Show Schedule)), and individual show press releases and club websites (Alabama Mineral & Lapidary Society) (Update Show Dates All). Each event entry reflects published dates and details for 2025 (where available) and characterizes the show’s scale and atmosphere as reported by organizers or attendees.
