It's the most magical time of the year when the jewelry industry's A-list suppliers and designers ascend upon the desert with their bounty and beautiful creations. The highest quality goods are found at the AGTA Convention center show where row after row, America's finest dealers display booths filled with their finest gemstones. From one-of-a-kind fantasy such zircon to 15-carat unheated Ceylon Sapphires, every blink shocks the senses with extraordinary beauty.
The Tucson Gem Shows are a particularly dangerous location for an emerging designer like myself. As someone who specializes in custom pieces, I started my journey collecting items and images for clients I have who are looking to create specific pieces. And though I had missions, every color, shape, and new material brought back memories of my travels around the world that inspire my fine jewelry collections. Walking the show, my brain was teeming with new designs--a particularly terrifying thing when prices are high and a client has yet to emerge from the woodwork for these items dancing in my mind...
I am looking forward to sharing new collections and items over the coming months. I plan to expand my unique items in the Azores collection, create new motifs that are inspired by the Amazon, and start to get a little icy with a deep dive into the glaciers of Patagonia. Stay tuned!
In the meantime, check out some of my favorite finds:
There are many incredible gems that didn't make it into my bag and I am sure they will be haunting my dreams over the next year. Can't wait to go back!