A black light fluorescent rock display, gold-panning, jade-carving, and hourly door prizes are just a few of the highlights of the 68th annual Gem and Mineral Show. The show is hosted by the Gila County Gem and Mineral Society, and takes place Jan. 16 through 18 at the Gila County Fairgrounds.
Beverly Hawkins, vendor chairman and show co-chairman, along with society president Haley Williams, says that they are excited to announce five new vendors in this year’s show. Vendors come from all over the county, Hawkins says, plus the activity room for the kids is always a big draw for families. She says Friday will be a “Youth Day” where they hope to host kids from local schools. There will be talks and demonstrations geared toward youth.
Hawkins says a main attraction is the display cases “where the people in our club and different vendors put out different rocks and specimens to see what we’ve been gathering.”
There will also be wire-wrapping demonstrations, she says, which is for making jewelry.
The show is a community venture. The society has been trying to get displays from the mines, and Hawkins says Bullion Plaza usually does a nice display. The Globe-Miami Elks Lodge will be in the kitchen, serving breakfast and lunch all weekend.
Attendance numbers vary from year to year, and the society hopes its show draws a big
audience. Show hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday. Donation entry for the show is $5 per person or $8 per couple, and students and kids attend free.
Whether you’re a long-time rockhound or a first-time visitor, the 68th annual Gem and Mineral Show offers something for everyone. With a variety of vendors, displays, and hands-on activities, this event promises to be both educational and entertaining for all ages.
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