Visiting the Tucson gem, bead, mineral, and fossil shows is part shopping excursion, treasure hunt, family reunion, and cultural experience. We look forward to it every year! The Tucson Show Guide is your guide to all the shows, but here’s a sneak peek at what we’ll be looking for during our week in the desert. […]

John Dyer has spent over three decades perfecting his art. He holds more than 60 awards for his excellent craftmanship as a gem cutter. John’s most recent commendations are two 2024 American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) Awards. Both are attributed to his spectacular 33.00ct Montana Sun Sapphire. John won Best of Show in Cutting Edge […]

Rozantia, the Bulgarian bilingual author of the Bairozan blog, is a long time reader of my blog.  She says she discovered her creative self late in life. It’s never too late to start!  Jewelry making is one of her passions. Here are some of her DIY tips She shared this very easy beginner tip to adjust […]

Most of us are familiar with wide Egyptian collars. But the Ukrainians also have the tradition of wearing wide beaded net necklaces. Called “kryza”, these necklaces can come in different widths. The word kryza comes from the German word “kreis” which means circle.   Ukrainian artisan, Oleg of StanUAJewelry makes stunning ones. I love how these […]

Love is in the air and if your love language is making jewelry, then look no further for supplies as our designer Julie has picked out her very favorite jewelry making essentials for Valentine’s Day projects! Below you will find hearts, flowers, pretty pink beads, and more. You can look to our live shows, videos, […]

As jewelry makers, we truly wear our passions and hearts on our sleeves. Our lovingly created bracelets, earrings, and necklaces invite compliments–and it’s common for people to ask where we got our jewelry making ideas and inspiration. I love sharing the stories behind my jewelry. Zelda Fitzgerald said, “Nobody has ever measured, even poets, how […]

Creativity is so important in a child’s development because it fosters curiosity, imagination and allows them to express themselves in different ways.  Their works of art should be cherished.  Here are some wonderful custom jewelry designers who can turn children’s art into wearable pieces. One of the best are the design team behind TasarimTakarim which […]

While you are in Tucson, make plans to experience the Sonoran Desert in addition to the shows. Soak up the atmosphere by learning about the history of gems and minerals, feasting your eyes on internationally renowned art, and walking among cactuses and nature. Here are a few of our favorite attractions. You will find many […]

 The old (originally 17th century Scottish) proverb “You can’t make a silk purse from a sow’s ear” meant you cannot make something beautiful from inferior products.  Well, the wonderful Edinburgh based atelier, SilkPurseSowsEar, certainly proves the proverb wrong. They make the most beautiful photo lockets from mostly brass. Brass is a lot cheaper than gold […]

Stephanie of Bronzepony Beaded Jewelry has a way with Paisley Duos! Her lovely bracelet tutorial, shown above, has a main section with bead bezeled 18mm teardrop fancy stones and Paisley Duos while the Paisley Duos are used for the rest of the bracelet band.  I love how the bracelet looks so elegant on her wrist! That […]