Sure, gems and minerals can seem a bit geeky, but geeking out at the gem show is a chance to learn quirky trivia and buy cool stuff.
Here's our list of must-see places.
OK, it's not quite "Jurassic Park," but it's still cool to check out the T-Rex Museum's Dino Fiesta.
When: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays and noon-5 p.m. Sundays through Feb. 11.
Where: 100 E. Drachman St.
Cost: $5.
Know those little crystals Paris Hilton had plastered all over her cell phone? Check them out at the Swarovski Tucson Show.
When: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. today; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
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Where: Omni Tucson National Golf Resort & Spa, 2727 W. Club Drive.
We know you're used to seeing Indian jewelry in the Southwest. Here's a great place to shop: American Indian Exposition.
When: 10 a.m -5 p.m. today; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday through next Thursday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Feb. 9-10; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 11.
Where: Flamingo Hotel Ballroom, 1300 N. Stone Ave.
Got beads? If you're into stringing up your own designs, check out To Bead True Blue.
When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. through Sunday.
Where: Manning House, 450 W. Paseo Redondo.
And, of course, the granddaddy of the shows, the culmination of the showcase — the 53rd annual Tucson Gem and Mineral Show.
When: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Feb. 8-10; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Feb. 11.
Where: Tucson Convention Center, 260 S. Church Ave.
Cost: $7; children 14 and under free with paying adult.
— Jennifer Duffy
