Story by Emily Huddleston, AZPM Intern
The 61st annual Gem, Mineral and Fossil shows are under way in Tucson, with 55,000 treasure hunters expected in the next two weeks, in what is the city’s biggest tourism event.
The mineral madness sprawls across the city, with shows at more than 40 locations. The main event will be the big showcase at the Tucson Convention Center Feb. 13-15.
Dan Gibson, director of corporate communications at the convention and visitors bureau known as Visit Tucson, called it the best such show shows in North America.
"It is the variety of exhibitors, the quality of merchandise that comes through here," Gibson said. "Just the fact that you have mom and pop merchants up to giant corporations that are selling their gems here. There is something for everyone, which is great.”
Last year, the shows generated $120 million in direct spending, and Gibson said more people are expected this year, so the economic impact should grow.
By submitting your comments, you hereby give AZPM the right to post your comments and potentially use them in any other form of media operated by this institution.