2024 Rockhound's Calendar: Must-Attend Mineral Shows and Conferences in the United States and Canada
Calling all rockhounds, mineral enthusiasts, and gem aficionados! Get ready to dust off your hammers, polish your loupes, and mark your calendars, because 2024 is shaping up to be an epic year for rockhounding events across the United States and Canada. From dazzling gem shows to insightful conferences, there's something for every level of collector - and every corner of North America.
Are you a rockhound or a mineral enthusiast who loves to learn, network, collect, and have fun? If so, you are in luck because 2024 is packed with exciting and informative gem and mineral shows and conferences in the United States and Canada. These events are the perfect opportunity to discover new specimens, meet fellow hobbyists and experts, and stay updated on the latest trends and innovations in the mineral industry.
In this article, we will highlight some of the must-attend events in 2024 for rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts. Whether you are looking for rare and beautiful crystals, fossils, gems, or jewelry, or you are interested in the science, technology, and business of mineral exploration and mining, you will find something that suits your interests and needs.
2024 Rockhounding Calendar for the United States
1. Tucson Gem and Mineral Show
The Tucson Gem and Mineral Show is the largest and most prestigious gem and mineral show in the world. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to Tucson, Arizona to witness the spectacular display of minerals, fossils, gems, and jewelry from around the world. The show is held at the Tucson Convention Center and is open to the public.
The theme of the 2024 show is “Pegmatites - Crystals Big and Beautiful”. Pegmatites are coarse-grained igneous rocks that contain exceptionally large crystals of minerals, such as quartz, feldspar, tourmaline, beryl, and topaz. The show will feature exhibits, vendors, lectures, and workshops that showcase the diversity, beauty, and significance of pegmatites and their minerals.
If you are planning to attend the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, here are some tips and advice to make the most of your experience:
- It will be held February 8th - 11th, 2024, at the Tucson Convention Center
- Book your accommodation and transportation in advance, as Tucson gets very busy and crowded during the show season.
- Check the schedule and map of the show to plan your visit and prioritize the exhibits and vendors that interest you the most.
- Bring cash and bags to purchase and carry your treasures, as some vendors may not accept credit cards or provide packaging.
2. Denver Gem & Mineral Show
The Denver Gem & Mineral Show is the second-largest gem and mineral show in the United States. It is held every September at the Westin Westminster and the National Western Complex in Colorado. The show is free and open to the public.
The 2024 show will be in conjunction with the Hardrock Summit, which is a new event that combines the Denver Mineral, Fossil, Gem & Jewelry Show and the Colorado Mineral & Fossil Show. This year's show will hold between January 27th - February 11th, 2024.
The Hardrock Summit will feature four distinct shows: Evolution, Sparkle & Joy, Mineral & Fossil Marketplace, and Fine Mineral Show. Each show will have its theme, focus, and audience.
The Denver Gem & Mineral Show and the Hardrock Summit will offer a variety of dealers, displays, demonstrations, auctions, and educational programs for all levels of interest and expertise. You will be able to see and buy minerals, fossils, gems, jewelry, beads, meteorites, and more from local and international sources.
3. Midwest Gem & Mineral Show
If you're in the central part of the US, October brings the Midwest Gem & Mineral Show to St. Charles, Missouri. This show is a vibrant gathering of rockhounds from all over the Midwest, showcasing a vast array of minerals, gems, fossils, and jewelry. Find stunning specimens for your collection, pick up unique gifts for the rockhound in your life, and don't miss the exciting raffles and demonstrations.
This show is hosted by the Midwest Federation of Mineralogical and Geological Societies. It features vendors, exhibits, lectures, workshops, and field trips related to gems, minerals, fossils, and lapidary arts.
Other Notable Shows and Conferences in the United States in 2024
Besides the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, the Denver Gem & Mineral Show, and the Midwest Gem & Mineral Show, there are many other notable shows and conferences in the United States in 2024 that are worth attending for rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts. Here are some of them:
4. MINEXCHANGE 2024 SME Annual Conference & Expo (Phoenix, Arizona, February 25-28)
Gear up for the premier event for mining and metallurgy enthusiasts! Dive deep into technical talks, connect with industry leaders at the expo, and polish your professional skills with development programs. This is your chance to network, learn, and shape the future of the industry.
This is the premier event for the mining and metallurgy community, featuring a technical program, an expo, and a professional development program. The event will be held on February 25-28, 2024, in Phoenix, Arizona.
5. MINExpo INTERNATIONAL 2024 (Las Vegas, Nevada, September 24-26)
Prepare to be dazzled! The largest and most comprehensive mining event in the world takes over Las Vegas. Witness the latest equipment, products, services, and technologies shaping the future of the industry. Interact with experts, attend informative sessions, and network with fellow rockhounds from around the globe.
This is the largest and most comprehensive mining event in the world, featuring exhibits, demonstrations, sessions, and networking events on the latest equipment, products, services, and technologies for the mining industry. The event will be held on September 24-26, 2024, in Las Vegas, Nevada.
6. Northwest Federation of Mineralogical Societies Annual Show (Hermiston, Oregon, May 10-12)
Spark a love for rocks in the whole family! This fun-filled show boasts an array of vendors, educational exhibits, interactive demos, and captivating events like gold panning and kids' activities. Explore, learn, and maybe even score some treasures together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
This is the annual show of the Northwest Federation of Mineralogical Societies, featuring vendors, exhibits, demos, gold panning, kids' activities, raffle, and auctions. The show will be held on May 10-12, 2024, in Hermiston, Oregon.
2024 Rockhounding Calendar for Canada
1. PDAC 2024 Convention
The PDAC Convention is the world's premier mineral exploration and mining convention. It is held every March at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Canada. This year's event will be held on Mar 03, 2024, from 08:00 am to 12:00 pm at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre (some events and networking will take place at Fairmont Royal York Hotel).
The convention attracts up to 30,000 attendees from over 130 countries and covers all aspects of the mineral industry, from exploration to investment.
The PDAC Convention offers a comprehensive and diverse technical program, featuring presentations, panels, workshops, and courses on the latest developments and best practices in mineral exploration and mining. The convention also hosts a trade show, where exhibitors showcase their products and services, and an investors exchange, where companies pitch their projects and opportunities to potential investors.
The PDAC Convention is also a great place to network and connect with industry leaders, experts, peers, and partners. The convention organizes various events and activities, such as receptions, luncheons, awards, and socials, to facilitate and enhance the exchange of ideas and information.
2. Ottawa Spring Rock N' Gem Show
Canada is kicking off its rockhounding season in style with the Ottawa Spring Rock N' Gem Show in May. This granddaddy of Canadian shows, held in the nation's capital, is a must-attend for any serious collector. With over 300 vendors from across Canada and the US, you'll find an incredible selection of minerals, gems, fossils, and lapidary equipment. Be sure to check out the educational exhibits and workshops, and maybe even take a field trip to one of Ottawa's famous collecting sites.
The show also offers free talks, demonstrations, and workshops on various topics related to gems and minerals. The show dates for 2024 are May 9-12, and the location is Ottawa, Canada.
3. Red Deer Spring Rock N' Gem Show
If you're in western Canada, head to Red Deer, Alberta, in February or March for the Red Deer Spring Rock N' Gem Show. This is a four-day show featuring local and international vendors selling crystals, rocks, fossils, minerals, jewelry, and more.
This friendly and informative show attracts rockhounds from all over the province, offering a great selection of minerals, gems, fossils, and jewelry. The show also offers free talks, demonstrations, and workshops on various topics related to gems and minerals. Meet fellow collectors, learn from experienced lapidary artists, and maybe even discover a hidden gem (or two) to add to your collection.
The show dates for 2024 are February 28-March 3, and the location is Red Deer, Canada.
4. The Gem Expo
Toronto rockhounds, rejoice! The Gem Expo happens three times a year, in March, July, and November, offering a dazzling array of gems, minerals, fossils, and jewelry. This show is a great opportunity to find unique pieces for your collection, learn about different gemstones, and even get your stones cut and polished. With its central location and friendly atmosphere, The Gem Expo is a must-visit for any Toronto rockhound.
This is a three-day show in March featuring local and international vendors selling gemstones, minerals, beads, gems, and jewelry. The show also offers free talks, demonstrations, and workshops on various topics related to gems and minerals. The show dates for 2024 are March 8-10, and the location is Toronto, Canada.
Other Notable Shows and Conferences in Canada for 2024
Besides the shows and events listed above, there are many other notable shows and conferences in Canada in 2024 that are worth attending for rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts. Here are some of them:
5. Kawartha Rock & Fossil Club Annual Show
Head to Peterborough, Ontario, in March for the Kawartha Rock & Fossil Club Annual Show. This smaller, community-focused show is a great place to meet fellow rockhounds, learn about local collecting sites, and score some amazing finds.
With a focus on education and camaraderie, the Kawartha show is a one-day show featuring local and regional vendors selling rocks, minerals, fossils, jewelry, and more. The show also offers displays, demonstrations, and activities for kids.
6. CIM Connect - Convention + Expo 2024 (Vancouver, Canada, May 12-15)
This annual convention by the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum offers a vibrant mix of technical presentations, exciting expo booths, and social events. Learn from industry leaders, discover career opportunities, and celebrate the diversity of the Canadian mining and resource sector.
The convention offers technical programs, networking events, trade shows, and awards. The convention dates for 2024 are not yet announced, but the 2023 convention will be held in Vancouver, Canada, on May 1-4.
Conclusion
As you can see, 2024 is a great year for rockhounds and mineral enthusiasts, as there are many amazing and informative gem and mineral shows and conferences in the United States and Canada. These events are the perfect opportunity to discover new specimens, meet fellow hobbyists and experts, and stay updated on the latest trends and innovations in the mineral industry.
If you are interested in attending any of these events, make sure to mark your calendars and plan your trips. You will not regret it, as you will have a lot of fun and learn a lot.
We hope you enjoyed this article and found it useful. You can find more interesting rockhounding articles from rockhounding.org here. If you want to learn more about gem and mineral shows and conferences, you can check out these websites for more information and resources:
- Rock and Mineral Shows, which lists the shows by state and category and allows you to locate the shows by state or in your area.
- Rock & Gem Magazine, which updates the different rock and mineral show dates for all states and categories.
- Xpo Press, which provides a comprehensive guide to gem and mineral shows around the world.
- Rock & Gem Shows, which features news, articles, and videos on gem and mineral shows and events
- American Federation of Mineralogical Societies, which represents the regional federations and clubs of mineral enthusiasts in the United States
Thank you for reading and happy rockhounding!