mattcc
off to a rocking start
Member since August 2022
Posts: 19
|
Post by mattcc on Dec 8, 2022 8:22:11 GMT -5
Hello everyone, I am seeking advice about whether I should go to the Quartzite or the Tucson rock show. I only have the vacation budget to go to one of these events. I have never been to a rock show of any sort before.
Quartzite has the virtue of being much closer to me geographically, happens sooner, and I already know several of you on this board are going to be there. Tucson has the virtue of being the largest rock show on the planet. (Although, I hear Quartzite is not far behind in its magnitude.)
Are either of these shows a place where I can buy a top-quality diamond for an engagement ring? Which of these shows would I be more likely to come across a low-priced used faceting machine?
If I were to choose Quartzite, would you suggest the first weekend or the last? Why?
Thank you in advance for the advice!
|
|
gemfeller
Cave Dweller
Member since June 2011
Posts: 3,767
|
Post by gemfeller on Dec 8, 2022 19:44:02 GMT -5
Tucson for the diamond and other high-end faceted goods. But you need to check in advance to see if you can gain access to some of the top wholesale shows. Most require proof you're in business.
That said, you can find almost anything there, wholesale or retail, if you have the endurance and shoe leather to keep looking -- it's a huge bunch of shows located all over town. Agates to emeralds and rubies.
The main problem is lodging. Most people book a year in advance and it's expensive!
Others can give you more up to date info on Quartzsite. I haven't attended in several years.
|
|
herb
spending too much on rocks
Member since November 2011
Posts: 444
|
Post by herb on Dec 9, 2022 12:30:58 GMT -5
Last 2 times we went to the Tucson gem show, about 5 and 9 years ago, we stayed in Benson which is about 45 min away. It is a bit of a drive, but it is highway all the way so isn't stressful. Both times we stayed at a Motel 6 I think. Had a jetted hot tub and heated pool open 24 hrs which was nice after a long day of hoofing about. Both times were in the mid $40's per night when things closer to Tucson, if you could find something, were in the $90's and up.
I just looked now for early February and the rates are in the 70s and up in Benson. So either Tucson is WAY more now then the last time we went or Benson is catching up
|
|