The 21st Annual Prescott Gem & Mineral Show is August 1–3
Mark your calendar: the Annual Prescott Gem & Mineral Show is happening August 1–3 at the Findlay Toyota Event Center at 3201 N. Main Street in Prescott Valley.
The show has come a long way since its humble beginnings in 2004. “The shows used to take place right after the County Fair, and flies outnumbered the patrons. Every vendor got a fly swatter as standard gear,” recalled Maggi Leiber, Past Club President and Past Show Co-Chair. What started as a small gathering has grown into Northern Arizona’s largest indoor gem and mineral event.
Two decades later, with more than 75 vendors from around the western U.S., the show offers a vibrant mix of one-of-a-kind jewelry, fossils, rough rock, mineral specimens, beads, tools, and more. “We work hard to bring in a diverse group of vendors—from high-end mineral dealers to lapidary artists and fossil hunters. It keeps the show fresh every year,” said Dan Hunt, Show Chair.
One of the most popular features of the show is the fluorescent mineral booth—and it’s far from a simple display. This kinetic, immersive experience includes lasers, two types of ultraviolet illumination, and glowing specimens that come alive in the dark. It’s a signature experience unique to the Prescott Show.
There’s plenty more to see and do, including stunning display cases from club members and a kids’ activity zone with games, face painting, gold panning and geode splitting. Every paid admission includes a raffle ticket for daily prize drawings.
“This show represents a large portion of our club’s activities, but not all. We’re so much more. However, the show is definitely the ‘shining light’ of our year and a great way to connect with the community,” said John Munday, Club President.
Stop by the information table to learn more about joining the club. Members enjoy monthly rockhounding field trips, an annual out-of-state adventure, lapidary workshops, and even scholarships through Yavapai College.
The show takes place Friday and Saturday 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. $5 general admission, $4 for seniors, vets, and students. Children under 12 are free with a paid adult. Free parking.
Started in 2003 by a small group of rockhounds, the Prescott Gem & Mineral Club has grown into one of the largest in Arizona, with more than 300 members. Monthly meetings held at the Elks Lodge in Prescott Valley are open to guests and include everything from local geology and lapidary arts to field trip recaps and jewelry making.
Rock on in Prescott this August—you might just find your next treasure!
The show is sponsored by the Prescott Gem & Mineral Club which is a 501c3 nonprofit charitable organization. Learn more at www.prescottgemmineral.org and follow the club on Facebook for updates.