Tucson 2024 — Slow and Steady.

The Tucson Show was a fantastic event for connecting with friends, suppliers, and customers, both new and old. However, compared to previous years, the 2024 show was slower in terms of attendance. Despite the slow pace, we were able to add inventory with the materials we were expecting from Brazil. Our setup was at the Quality Inn hotel, specifically at GIGM Shows, located by the side of the Highway, on the other corner from Pueblo Show, close to GJX and AGTA.

This show used to be the go-to place for Brazilians to showcase their "gems." The hotel was always fully booked by the Brazilian community, who were pioneers in bringing gems to the US. It was known as the spot to find high-quality goods at reasonable prices compared to other shows like AGTA or GJX. We still had some movement from new and old customers, and we were able to build relationships despite the slower traffic.

On another note, the Pantone Color of the Year seems to closely resemble "Imperial Topaz," which happens to be my favorite stone. Dealers went crazy trying to acquire it, especially now that the mine in Ouro Preto, Brazil is closed, making it harder to find at a good price.

If I were to recommend a to-do list in Tucson, here are some suggestions:

1. Exo Coffee

2. Blanco & Tequila Restaurant

3. A mountain overview of Tucson

4. Monsoon Chocolate Factory

5. San Xavier Mission Del Barc Historic Church

6. Time Market (open anytime, any day, every day)

7. Guadalajara Grill (for the best Mexican food and salsa)

8. Jun Dynasty Chinese food

9. In-n-Out Burgers (since we don't have it on the East Coast)

And don't forget to check out the GIGM Shows, GJX, AGTA, Pueblo, 22nd Street Show, Holidome, and JOGS while you're in Tucson!