Gemstone Shows & Markets 2026: Your Complete Calendar + Insider Tips

Level Up Your Gemstone Show Experience

Attending gemstone shows 2026 isn't just about admiring beautiful stones—it's about gaining insider knowledge, building trusted connections, and sourcing ethically with confidence."

Whether you're a first-time buyer, seasoned collector, or just hooked on gems, 2026 offers exceptional opportunities to discover rare finds and learn from global experts.

This complete guide to gemstone shows 2026 goes beyond a simple calendar. I've curated insights on what to expect at major shows, how to identify ethical sourcing opportunities, and insider tips I've learned from attending Tucson, Sri Lanka and Vietnam gem markets, the five gem shows on the Opal circuit in Australia and St Marie Aux Mines myself.

Ready to make the most of your gem show experience? Here's a full guide to buying gemstones safely.

Why Attend Gemstone Shows 2026? Four Essential Reasons

Before we get to the gemstone shows 2026 calendar, let me explain why these events matter—especially if you're committed to ethical buying and consumer protection.

Educational Value: From workshops on treatment detection to seminars on gemstone origins, shows offer learning you won't find online. You'll hear from gemmologists, miners, cutters, and traders about the latest market trends and ethical practices.

Direct Access to Sourcing: Shows connect you directly with suppliers, cutters, and miners. This is where you can ask tough questions about origins, treatments, and fair labour practices, the foundation of ethical buying.

Community & Trust-Building: You'll meet fellow collectors, establish relationships with trusted contacts, and verify dealer credibility in person. Trust is the cornerstone of ethical gemstone buying.

Spotting Red Flags: In-person inspection helps you identify treated stones, overpriced deals, and dubious practices. This is consumer protection in action.

How to Prepare for a Gem Show (The Gemstone Detective Way)

Don't just show up. Strategy makes all the difference.

1. Research the Show's Focus

Not all shows are equal. Some specialise in raw minerals, others in cut gems or jewellery. Check the exhibitor list beforehand and identify vendors aligned with ethical sourcing.

2. Create a Visitor Checklist

• Which specific gems or origins interest you?

• Which exhibitors are on your "must-visit" list?

• What questions will you ask about sourcing and treatments?

• Bring the Gemstone Detective Buying Checklist to verify stones on the spot.

3. Attend Educational Sessions

Schedule workshops on treatment detection, gemmological identification, and ethical sourcing. These sessions often sell out, so register early.

4. Network Intentionally

Identify dealers known for ethical practices. Ask for references and follow-up connections. Quality relationships trump quantity.

5. Budget for Time, Not Just Money

Plan to spend 2-3 days at major shows like Tucson. Rushing means missing opportunities and making hasty decisions, the opposite of confident buying.

Gemstone Shows 2026: The Complete Calendar (20 Global Events)

The gemstone shows 2026 listed below represent the world's most significant sourcing and collecting events. Whether you're attending your first gem show or returning as a seasoned collector, these gemstone shows 2026 offer unparalleled opportunities for ethical sourcing, education, and building trusted dealer relationships."

Q1 2026

1. Tucson Gem and Mineral Show

Dates: February 7-10, 2026

Location: Tucson, Arizona, USA

Entrance Fee: $13 per day

Why It Matters: The world's largest gem show. Established in 1955, Tucson attracts 40,000+ visitors and 2,000+ exhibitors. You'll find everything from raw minerals to rare collector's pieces.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Tucson has a growing cohort of dealers committed to transparency. Look for exhibitors displaying origin documentation and mining practice disclosures. The AGTA (American Gem Trade Association) booth is excellent for learning about ethical standards.

What to Expect: Hundreds of booths, workshops on gemstone identification, mineral displays, and jewellery innovations. The atmosphere is electric but overwhelming, bring your checklist.

Insider Tip: Arrive early (first 2 days) for best selection. Bring a loupe and UV light for hands-on inspection. Stay hydrated, the venue is vast.

2. Munich Show (Mineralientage)

Dates: October 23-25, 2026

Location: Munich, Germany

Entrance Fee: €20 per day

Why It Matters: Europe's premier gem show since 1964. Over 40,000 visitors and 500+ exhibitors. Known for exceptional mineral specimens and high-quality European gems.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: German and European dealers often have robust documentation practices. Ask about sourcing transparency and certifications. Many exhibitors specialise in African and Asian gems with clear provenance.

What to Expect: Curated mineral displays, fossil collections, and jewellery exhibits. The show attracts serious collectors and professionals, conversations are in-depth and educational.

Insider Tip: The exhibition guide (available at entry) is detailed, use it to plan your route. Allow time to revisit booths; you'll notice details on second visits.

3. Bangkok Gem and Jewellery Fair

Dates: February 24-28, 2026

Location: Bangkok, Thailand

Entrance Fee: Free (professional registration may apply)

Why It Matters: Access to Thailand's gemstone heritage and craftsmanship. Established in 1983, it's the gateway to understanding Thai cutting, treating practices, and sourcing ethics.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: This is where you learn about Thai treatment standards and cutting innovation. Ask exhibitors about their sourcing practices, many work directly with miners in Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. Transparency varies; assess carefully.

What to Expect: Polished gems, jewellery designs, and craftsmanship demonstrations. The atmosphere is trade-focused and commercial.

Insider Tip: Combine with a trip to Sri Lanka or Cambodia for sourcing research. Build relationships with exhibitors you trust for long-term connections.

4. Paris Mineral Show

Dates: March 20-22, 2026

Location: Paris, France

Entrance Fee: €15 per day

Why It Matters: Esteemed since 1975 for exceptional European minerals and gems. Smaller and more curated than Tucson, attracting serious collectors.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: European dealers prioritise documentation and traceability. This is an excellent show for learning about responsible sourcing practices and meeting like-minded buyers.

What to Expect: High-quality mineral specimens, antique gems, and expert talks. The ambiance is refined and educational.

Insider Tip: Attend the evening seminars—they're less crowded and offer deeper conversations with exhibitors.

The first quarter gemstone shows 2026 set the tone for your annual collecting calendar. As we move into spring and summer events, the gemstone shows 2026 shift to regional focuses, from European minerals to Asian craftsmanship. Each offers distinct opportunities for ethical sourcing and expert learning.

Q2 2026

5. London Mineral Show

Dates: May 17-19, 2026

Location: London, UK

Entrance Fee: £10 per day

Why It Matters: A gem-lover's sanctuary since 1985. Focused on antique minerals, historical collections, and expert talks. Smaller than Tucson but exceptionally curated.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Antique and historical gems have unique ethical considerations, provenance and legal import history matter. Use this show to learn about responsible collecting.

What to Expect: Antique dealers, museum-quality specimens, expert lectures on gemmology and mineralogy.

Insider Tip: Book talks in advance. The networking among UK and European collectors is exceptional.

6. Shanghai Gem and Jewellery Show

Dates: May 15-17, 2026

Location: Shanghai, China

Entrance Fee: CNY 100 per day

Why It Matters: A hub for Asian gem craftsmanship since 1997. High-quality exhibits and access to sourcing from across Asia.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: This is where you learn about Asian cutting standards and treatment practices. Many exhibitors source from Myanmar, Thailand, and Afghanistan. Ask about their supply chain transparency.

What to Expect: Asian gemstones, jewellery craftsmanship, and trade-focused exhibits.

Insider Tip: Engage interpreters if language is a barrier. Building trust across language differences is key to ethical sourcing relationships.

7. Edinburgh Gem Show

Dates: June 6-8, 2026

Location: Edinburgh, UK

Entrance Fee: £8 per day

Why It Matters: Celebrates Scotland's natural mineral wealth since 1996. Smaller, community-focused show with local collectors and dealers.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Local Scottish gems offer unique sourcing stories. This is a great show for understanding local mining ethics and supporting regional suppliers.

What to Expect: Scottish minerals, local craftspeople, and a welcoming community atmosphere.

Insider Tip: Perfect for combining with travel to Scottish mining regions or whisky country. Smaller shows offer deeper personal connections.

8. Hong Kong Mineral Fair

Dates: June 27-29, 2026

Location: Hong Kong, China

Entrance Fee: HKD 50 per day

Why It Matters: Gateway to international gemstone trading since 1995. Attracts exhibitors from across Asia, Africa, and beyond.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Hong Kong is a major trading hub, you'll encounter diverse sourcing practices. Use this show to learn about origin documentation and ask tough questions about supply chains.

What to Expect: High-volume trading, diverse international gemstones, and professional dealers.

Insider Tip: Schedule appointments with exhibitors in advance. The atmosphere is fast-paced; preparation maximises your time.

Q3 2026

9. Melbourne Gem Festival

Dates: April 21-23, 2026

Location: Melbourne, Australia

Entrance Fee: AUD 15 per day

Why It Matters: Showcases Australia's unique gemstones since 1992. Essential for understanding Australian opals and sapphires.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Australian mining has strong regulatory frameworks. This is an excellent show for learning about responsible mining practices and supporting ethical Australian sourcing.

What to Expect: Australian opals, sapphires, and regional gemstones. Informative presentations on local mining.

Insider Tip: Connect with Australian dealers for long-term sourcing relationships. The gem community here is tight-knit and trustworthy.

10. Sydney Gem and Crystal Show

Dates: July 10-12, 2026

Location: Sydney, Australia

Entrance Fee: AUD 10 per day

Why It Matters: Popular since 2000, focusing on local gems and crystals. Community-oriented and educational.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Learn about Australian crystal sourcing and the ethics of crystal healing markets. Ask exhibitors about their sourcing practices.

What to Expect: Australian gems, crystals, healing workshops, and local collectors.

Insider Tip: Combine with Melbourne show for a comprehensive Australian sourcing experience.

11. Singapore Gem and Mineral Festival

Dates: August 8-10, 2026

Location: Singapore

Entrance Fee: SGD 20 per day

Why It Matters: Growing hub for Southeast Asian gems since 2001. Diverse, high-quality exhibits and vibrant atmosphere.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Southeast Asia offers unique sourcing opportunities and challenges. Use this show to learn about ethical practices in this region and build trusted relationships.

What to Expect: Southeast Asian gems, cultural exhibits, and international dealers.

Insider Tip: Singapore's central location makes it ideal for combining with visits to Thailand, Cambodia, or Myanmar for sourcing research.

12. Perth Gem and Mineral Show

Dates: August 15-17, 2026

Location: Perth, Australia

Entrance Fee: AUD 12 per day

Why It Matters: Showcases Western Australian minerals since 1991. Known for exceptional local finds and unusual specimens.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Learn about Western Australian mining practices and regional gemstone sourcing. The dealer community here is particularly engaged in ethical practices.

What to Expect: Western Australian minerals, rare finds, and welcoming local dealers.

Insider Tip: This smaller show offers excellent one-on-one conversations with exhibitors. Build lasting connections.

13. Denver Gem and Mineral Show

Dates: September 11-13, 2026

Location: Denver, Colorado, USA

Entrance Fee: $10 per day

Why It Matters: A key USA show since 1968. Extensive array of gems and minerals with strong educational programming.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: USA shows attract dealers committed to transparency and legal compliance. Excellent for learning about American ethical standards and asking detailed sourcing questions.

What to Expect: Comprehensive gem and mineral displays, educational sessions, and vibrant community.

Insider Tip: Combine with Tucson (February) for a complete USA gem show experience.

14. Delhi International Gem and Mineral Exhibition

Dates: September 19-21, 2026

Location: Delhi, India

Entrance Fee: ₹250 per day

Why It Matters: Premier Indian show since 1990. Extensive collections with global participation. Gateway to understanding Indian gemstone sourcing and trading.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: India is a major cutting and trading hub. This show is essential for learning about Indian sourcing practices, treatment standards, and fair labour in the gem industry.

What to Expect: Diverse Indian and international gemstones, cutting demonstrations, and extensive collections.

Insider Tip: Plan time before or after the show to visit cutting centres and mining regions. Build on-ground sourcing relationships.

15. New York City Gem and Mineral Fair

Dates: October 10-12, 2026

Location: New York City, USA

Entrance Fee: $15 per day

Why It Matters: Premium exhibits and fossils since 1988. High-quality offerings in a bustling, cosmopolitan setting.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: NYC attracts top-tier dealers and collectors. Excellent for learning about premium sourcing standards and high-end ethical practices.

What to Expect: Premium gems, minerals, fossils, and expert talks. Fast-paced and professional atmosphere.

Insider Tip: Schedule appointments in advance. The show draws serious collectors and professionals, conversations are substantive.

Q4 2026

16. Tokyo International Mineral Fair

Dates: December 5-8, 2026

Location: Tokyo, Japan

Entrance Fee: ¥1,000 per day

Why It Matters: Significant Asian event since 1988. Focus on unique Asian specimens and international participation.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Japan has a sophisticated gemstone market with high standards for transparency. Learn about Japanese sourcing practices and certification standards.

What to Expect: Wide variety of gemstones, unique Asian specimens, and international dealers.

Insider Tip: The Japanese gem market values precision and documentation, excellent for learning about rigorous sourcing standards.

17. Munich Show (Mineralientage) – Autumn Edition (if available)

Dates: October 23-25, 2026

Location: Munich, Germany

(See spring listing above for details)

18. Jaipur Gem and Jewellery Show

Dates: November 14-17, 2026

Location: Jaipur, India

Entrance Fee: ₹200 per day

Why It Matters: Highlights Jaipur's rich gemstone heritage since 1980. Traditional gem culture and jewellery-making demonstrations.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Jaipur is a cutting hub with significant fair labour initiatives. This show is essential for understanding ethical cutting practices in India and supporting responsible workshops.

What to Expect: Traditional Indian gemstones, jewellery-making demonstrations, and heritage exhibits.

Insider Tip: Visit cutting workshops during or after the show. Direct relationships with cutters ensure ethical practices and quality control.

19. Cairo Gem Fair

Dates: December 11-13, 2026

Location: Cairo, Egypt

Entrance Fee: EGP 75 per day

Why It Matters: Showcases Egypt's rich gem history since 1985. Historical gemstones and artefacts with unique sourcing stories.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: Historical gems require careful ethical consideration; provenance, legal import, and cultural heritage matter. Use this show to learn about responsible collecting.

What to Expect: Historical gemstones, Egyptian artefacts, and unique finds. Rich storytelling and cultural context.

Insider Tip: Combine with visits to mining regions or museums to deepen your understanding of Egyptian gem sources.

20. San Francisco Crystal Fair

Dates: October 17-19, 2026

Location: San Francisco, California, USA

Entrance Fee: $12 per day

Why It Matters: Blends gems, minerals, and holistic wellness since 1986. Unique vibe combining beauty, healing, and discovery.

Ethical Sourcing Tip: The crystal and wellness market has unique ethical challenges; sustainability, fair trade, and authentic sourcing matter. Learn to spot ethical crystal sourcing at this show.

What to Expect: Crystals, minerals, holistic wellness products, and healing workshops.

Insider Tip: Ask exhibitors about sourcing and sustainability. The conscious consumer community here is engaged and values transparency.

Maximising Your Gemstone Shows 2026 Experience: 5 Insider Strategies

1. Bring the Right Tools

• 10x loupe for close inspection

• UV light to test for treatments

• Gemstone Detective Buying Checklist

• Notebook to record dealer details and sourcing information

• Camera for documenting stones and connections

2. Ask the Right Questions

Don't settle for vague answers. Ask:

• "Where does this stone originate?"

• "Has it been treated? If so, how?"

• "Can you provide documentation of origin?"

• "How did you source this directly?"

• "What certifications do you have?"

Dealers with nothing to hide will answer confidently. Red flags include vague answers, evasion, or pressure to buy quickly.

3. Build Relationships, Not Just Transactions

Attend the same shows annually. Follow up with dealers via email. Exchange contact information. Trust is built over time. This is especially crucial for ethical sourcing.

4. Attend Educational Sessions

Prioritise workshops on:

• Treatment detection and identification

• Gemstone origins and sourcing practices

• Ethical standards and fair labour

• Certification and documentation

• New gemmological technologies

5. Document Everything

Keep detailed records of:

• Dealer names, contact info, and booth locations

• Stone details (type, origin, size, price, treatments)

• Questions asked and answers received

• Your impressions of sourcing transparency

• Follow-up actions needed

Red Flags at Gem Shows: What to Avoid

⚠️Buyer Protection 101

Even at reputable shows, you'll encounter unethical practices.

Watch for:

✗ Vague Origins: "From Africa" or "South Asian" without specifics...red flag for poor sourcing practices.

✗ Pressure to Buy: Urgency tactics ("Last one available!" or "Price going up tomorrow") indicate desperation, not confidence.

✗ No Documentation: Legitimate dealers can provide certificates, origin details, or sourcing stories. Refusal is a warning sign.

✗ Too-Good-to-Be-True Pricing: If a ruby is suspiciously cheap for its quality, treatments or misrepresentation are likely.

✗ Evasive Answers: When asked about treatments or origins, does the dealer deflect, change the subject, or become defensive? That's a red flag.

✗ High-Pressure Certifications: Beware of "house" certificates or dubious labs. Reputable stones come with GIA, IGI, or SSEF certificates.

✗ Unwillingness to Inspect Closely: Legitimate dealers welcome loupe inspections and UV light testing. Hesitation suggests something to hide.

Planning Your Gemstone Shows 2026 Calendar: Three Pathways

For First-Time Buyers:

When choosing gemstone shows 2026 to attend, start with Tucson (February) or your regional show. The scale, education, and diversity make it perfect for learning. Follow with a second show 6-9 months later to build knowledge progressively.

For Collectors:

Attend major shows (Tucson, Munich, Bangkok, Paris) annually. Add regional shows that specialise in your preferred gems. Build relationships with 5-10 trusted dealers.

For Traders/Professionals:

Plan a global calendar hitting 4-6 major shows annually. Combine shows with sourcing trips (e.g., Bangkok + Cambodia, Delhi + Jaipur, Cairo + mines).

Budget Consideration:

The Gemstone Detective's Final Word

Gem shows are more than retail experiences—they're classrooms, networking hubs, and ethical sourcing opportunities. With over 10 years in the gem trade, I've seen how shows transform buyers from uncertain to confident, from rushed to thoughtful, from isolated to connected.

The 2026 calendar above represents the world's best opportunities to deepen your gemstone knowledge, build trusted relationships, and source with integrity.

My challenge to you: Pick one show that excites you. Research it thoroughly. Prepare your checklist. Attend with intention. Document what you learn. Build relationships that last beyond a single purchase.

That's how you move from buying gemstones to collecting them with clarity, confidence, and integrity.

Ready to Plan Your Gemstone Shows 2026 Experience?

⬇️Submit your details below to receive your Gemstone Buying Checklist to prepare for your first or next show experience. Or book a Gemstone Concierge consultation if you'd like personalised guidance on selecting the right shows for your goals, preparing your strategy, or following up on purchases.

Because buying gemstones should feel exciting, not risky.

Happy gem-hunting in 2026!