The Ethical Gem Suppliers Collective is poised to make its return to Tucson in 2026, bringing with it the highly anticipated annual Ethical Gem Fair. This exclusive trade event is dedicated to showcasing responsibly sourced gemstones, promoting transparent supply chains, and reinforcing community-driven values within the dynamic jewelry sector. Attendees can expect an immersive experience focused on ethical practices and industry collaboration.
Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Scottish Rite Cathedral, the Ethical Gem Fair will span four days, from Friday, January 30, to Monday, February 2, 2026. This gathering is a vital platform for designers, jewelers, and other industry stakeholders who are actively seeking traceable materials, aiming to forge direct relationships with suppliers, and eager to gain deeper insights into the journey of gemstones from their origin to the final market. A distinguished roster of participating suppliers includes Agere Treasures, ANZA Gems, Capricorn Gems, Columbia Gem House, Nature’s Geometry/Quore, Nineteen48, Perpetuum Jewels, and Virtu Gem, all committed to upholding the fair’s core principles.
A significant innovation for the 2026 fair is the debut of the Designer Showcase. This dedicated exhibition will feature exquisite finished jewelry pieces crafted exclusively from ethically sourced gemstones. The showcase aims to emphasize thoughtful design, conscientious material selection, and responsible production methodologies, while simultaneously celebrating the burgeoning community of designers who are committed to sustainable practices. By presenting completed works alongside raw materials, the showcase vividly illustrates the direct link between ethical choices and their beautiful manifestation in wearable art.
Another eagerly anticipated event at the 2026 fair is a special Happy Hour, scheduled for Sunday, February 1, from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Co-hosted with the Community for Ethical Jewelry, this relaxed and welcoming event will offer refreshments and an optional “Sip & Stamp” scavenger hunt. The scavenger hunt is designed to encourage exploration, spark conversations, and foster connections among attendees throughout the fair. Participants will have the opportunity to interact with leading industry experts, connect with like-minded peers, and even vie for a chance to win a curated collection of gemstones provided by the participating suppliers, further reinforcing shared values and highlighting collaborative impact within the industry.
The Ethical Gem Fair maintains its exclusivity as a trade-only event. Entry is complimentary, but prior registration is mandatory to ensure a smooth and organized experience for all attendees. Prospective participants can secure their registration by visiting the official website and navigating to the Events section.
This year's Ethical Gem Fair marks a pivotal moment for the jewelry community, reinforcing the industry's collective commitment to transparency, sustainability, and responsible sourcing. With an expanded program that includes the innovative Designer Showcase and engaging networking events, the fair promises to be an indispensable occasion for all professionals dedicated to the future of ethical jewelry.