Alright, let’s talk about hitting the Gem and Rock Show in Denver this year. I always try to make it out, it’s become a bit of a ritual for me.
First thing I did was check the dates way in advance. You gotta do that, these things sneak up on you. Marked it on the calendar. Knew it would be busy, it always is, so I planned to go on a weekday morning, hoping to beat some of the rush. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t.
Got up early that day. Had my usual coffee, grabbed my comfortable shoes – that’s key, trust me, you’re on your feet for hours. Threw a small backpack on with water and a couple of energy bars. Also made sure my wallet had some cash, not everyone takes cards, especially the smaller vendors.
Drove down there. Parking is usually a bit of a mess, depends which venue they’re using, sometimes it’s spread out. Found a spot eventually, paid the fee, didn’t complain too much. It is what it is.
Inside the Show
Walked up to the entrance, got my ticket, and headed inside. The first thing that hits you is the noise, the sheer buzz of people. And then the sparkle. Tables upon tables, rows upon rows, just loaded with stuff.
I started just wandering, kinda letting my eyes guide me. Didn’t have a specific shopping list this time, more just looking to see what caught my attention. You see everything:
- Rough stones, straight out of the ground.
- Polished gems, all shiny and perfect.
- Big geodes, you know, the ones you crack open.
- Fossils, bits of ancient history right there.
- Handmade jewelry, some amazing craftsmanship.
Spent a good hour just taking it all in. Walked through different halls, some focused on minerals, others on beads, others on fossils. It’s huge. You really have to pace yourself.
Stopped at a few tables. Picked things up, felt the weight, looked closely with my little pocket magnifier – always bring one of those. Talked to some of the sellers. Some are real experts, know exactly where their stuff came from, happy to chat. Others are just there to sell. You get a mix.
Found a nice piece of labradorite that caught my eye. Had that blue flash I like. Haggled a little bit, friendly like, and we settled on a price I was happy with. Tucked that away carefully in my bag.
Dealing with the Crowds
Yeah, it got crowded. Especially around the big flashy displays. You gotta be patient, maybe circle back to a table if it’s too mobbed. I just took my time, stepped aside when I needed a break. Found a quieter corner near some fossil dealers and just watched people for a bit.
Saw lots of families, serious collectors with loupes, jewelry makers hunting for specific beads. It’s a real diverse crowd, all drawn by these treasures from the earth.
After about three, maybe four hours, my feet started telling me it was time. Had seen most of what I wanted to see, made one good find, and felt satisfied. You can easily spend all day, even multiple days, but I usually hit my limit after half a day.
Headed towards the exit, clutching my one purchase. Felt good. It’s always an experience, that show. Tiring, yeah, but worth it if you like rocks and minerals. Got back to the car, glad I wore those comfy shoes.
So that was my trip to the Denver Gem and Rock Show this year. Another one in the books. Already thinking about next year.
