Be on the Lookout for These Tucson Treasures

Whether you’re on the hunt for intriguing gemstones in special cuts, elegant gold jewels, or pieces that incorporate both, you’re sure to find them in Tucson, during next month’s gem shows.

Between the AGTA GemFair at the Tucson Convention Center, which runs Feb. 2–6; the GJX show (aka “The Tent”), located across the street from the GemFair and open Feb. 2–7; and Melee the Show, at the Stillwell House Feb. 4–6, Tucson promises to deliver all that you seek.

Below, we highlight three brands we’re looking forward to seeing in Arizona, not to mention the newness they’re bringing.

Amáli at Melee the Show

The new Fringe collection of necklaces and earrings from NYC-based Amáli features the brand’s signature details: a fabric-like feel thanks to slinky 18k gold tassels, one-of-a-kind gems custom-fit into their 18k gold settings, and a sensibility that’s equal parts handmade artistry and glamorous high fashion. “Each veil of gold chain adds a touch of shimmering luxury and refinement,” says designer Sara Freedenfeld. We couldn’t agree more!

Earrings in 18k gold with red tourmalines, $4,980; Amáli

Clarté at GJX 

At the Valentine Jewels booth (1019/1119) at GJX, NYC-based Clarté is showing a range of elevated pieces. The brand’s new Gilded collection pays homage to one of nature’s most basic forms, the leaf. Complete with delicately threaded gold veins that recall the natural patterns found in foliage, the necklaces and earrings feature scatterings of diamonds, meant to evoke the look of dappled raindrops.

Gilded earrings in 14k gold with 1.15 cts. t.w. diamonds, $4,590; Clarté

Clarté’s new Geode choker necklace juxtaposes a 20 ct. malachite inlaid with multi-shape diamonds in a bold geometric frame. The combo packs quite the aesthetic punch.

Geode necklace in 14k gold with 20 ct. malachite and 1.62 cts. t.w. diamonds, $9,900; Clarté

Columbia Gem House at AGTA GemFair

Known for its array of American and responsibly sourced gems, Columbia Gem House will focus on faceted stars in a range of gem materials, including sapphire, citrine, neon green beryl, white quartz, and Idaho garnet, as well as faceted crescent moons in sapphire and Idaho garnet.

3.5 mm–5.5 mm faceted star Montana sapphires, $200–$1,000, Columbia Gem House

The popular gem dealer will also promote a variety of star cabochons in sapphire and ruby in response to growing client demand, as well as a selection of American rhodolite garnets “from the same Idaho locations we get our red garnet from,” Natasha Braunwart, CGH’s brand and corporate social responsibility manager, tells JCK. She adds that this marks the first time the company has been able to isolate the right rough to develop a true rhodolite collection. Naturally, it will make its debut in Tucson.

Top: Necklace in 18k gold with 2.21 ct. Australian opal doublet, $3,980; Amáli