Events & Awards

GJX Cancels 2021 Tucson Trade Show

Events & AwardsNov 19, 2020

GJX Cancels 2021 Tucson Trade Show

It joins the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show in deciding there are too many risks and obstacles to hold the event early next year.

20201119_GJX-header.jpg
Organizers of GJX said the occupancy restrictions for events in Tucson as COVID-19 numbers rise around the country again are just one of several obstacles leading it to cancel its 2021 trade show. (Image courtesy GJX Facebook page)

Tucson, Ariz.—Organizers of the Gem and Jewelry Exchange (GJX) trade show in Tucson, Arizona have canceled their 2021 event.

According to the show’s website, the decision came because the team doesn’t believe, given the stringent occupancy limits required and the risk to buyers, exhibitors, and staff, that they can safely hold the show next year.

A recent letter sent to exhibitors from CEO Allan Norville said though correspondence in August noted his optimism for COVID-19 being under control by year-end and the possibility of holding the 2021 edition, “this is obviously not the case today.”

According to the latest data, the U.S. has reached more than 11 million total positive cases of COVID-19, with 1 million of those added in a one-week span alone.

In Tucson, this means the city is maintaining its restrictions and policies for events over 50 people, including mandates required to protect everyone involved.

“GJX supports the concerns of the health department, but the mandates create serious challenges to operate the 2021 GJX show,” Norville wrote in his letter.

This includes, he added, occupancy limitations of one person per 150 square feet, meaning the show would only be able to have 800 people inside its structure, including dealers, buyers, registration, police and staff.

The show will apply all funds paid for exhibitor booths to the 2022 event, and any remaining costs incurred from the cancellation will be taken on by GJX.

The news follows the cancellation of the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show.

As of right now, the American Gem Trade Association is still scheduled to have its 2021 Tucson GemFair event, but a final decision will be made at a meeting scheduled for today (Nov. 19), CEO Doug Hucker told National Jeweler in a recent interview.

Meanwhile, no information has officially been released about JCK Tucson yet, but JCK Events has taken all information about the show down from its website.

As of Wednesday, some other shows open to the public are still planning 2021 events, including the Pueblo Gem & Mineral Show and the 22nd Street Show, which has changed its floorplan to follow safety protocols, according to its website.

The JOGS Tucson Gem and Jewelry Show also still has its 2021 dates posted, with no information to the contrary, as does Select Tucson.

Brecken Branstratoris the senior editor, gemstones at National Jeweler, covering sourcing, pricing and other developments in the colored stone sector.

The Latest

Rolex and Hallmark logos
Policies & IssuesMay 06, 2024
Rolex Files Objection to Hallmark’s New Trademark Application

The Swiss watchmaker said the company’s plans to use a new version of the Hallmark crown on jewelry would confuse consumers.

Anglo American executive Benny Oeyen
EditorsMay 06, 2024
Q&A: 8 Questions With Anglo American’s Benny Oeyen

The executive talked about the importance of self-purchasers and how fuel cell electric vehicles are going to fuel demand for platinum.

Opening of Malabar Gold & Diamonds store in Naperville Illinois
MajorsMay 06, 2024
Malabar Gold & Diamonds Opens 4th U.S. Showroom

The Indian jeweler’s new store in Naperville, Illinois marks its 350th location, part of its ongoing global expansion plans.

Header image w logo.jpg
Brought to you by
From Registration to Return: 10 Tips to Protect You Before, During and After a Tradeshow

Tradeshow risks are real. Get tips to protect yourself before, during and after and gain safety and security awareness for your business.

Mug shots of murder suspects Michael McCormack and Charles Robinson Shay
CrimeMay 03, 2024
Second Suspect Arrested in Murder of Colorado Jeweler

Wheat Ridge, Colorado police took a 50-year-old man into custody Wednesday following a two-month search.

Weekly QuizMay 02, 2024
This Week’s Quiz
Test your jewelry news knowledge by answering these seven questions.
Take the Quiz
Five Platinum Pieces
CollectionsMay 03, 2024
A Sneak Peek Into PGI’s Couture Platinum Spotlight Program

PGI partnered with four new and seven returning designers for its annual platinum capsule collection.

Kristie Nicolosi
MajorsMay 03, 2024
Kristie Nicolosi Joins WJA Board Again

Nicolosi, president and CEO of The Kingswood Company, previously sat on WJA’s board from 2011 to 2018.

national-jeweler-top-image-v1.jpg
Brought to you by
Rio’s Reimagined Podcast: For the Love of Jewelers

Meet Ben Claus—grand prize winner of For the Love of Jewelers 2023 Fall Design Challenge.

Karina Brez Bit of LUV Bracelet
CollectionsMay 03, 2024
Piece of the Week: A “Bit of LUV” for the Derby

Karina Brez’s race-ready piece is a sophisticated nod to the horse-rider relationship.

Stock image of handcuffs and gavel
CrimeMay 02, 2024
4 Indicted in Burglary Ring Targeting Indian, South Asian Families

The men are allegedly responsible for stealing millions in jewelry and other valuables in 43 burglaries in 25 towns across Massachusetts.

Horizon Campaign Collage
CollectionsMay 02, 2024
Foundrae Launches ‘Horizon’ Collection

“Horizon” invites individuals to explore the limitless possibilities that lie ahead, said the brand.

Pandora jewelry
FinancialsMay 02, 2024
Pandora Raises Guidance After Strong Q1

The jeweler credits its recent “Be Love” campaign and ongoing brand revamp for its 17 percent jump in sales.

Glenn Lewis
IndependentsMay 02, 2024
Oklahoma Jeweler Glenn Lewis Dies at 68

The co-founder of Lewis Jewelers was also the longtime mayor of the city of Moore.

The back of the Baume & Mercier watch Elvis gave to Dodie Marshall
AuctionsMay 02, 2024
Vintage Baume & Mercier With Ties to Elvis Sells for $7K

Elvis Presley gifted this circa 1967 gold and diamond watch to Dodie Marshall, his co-star in “Easy Come, Easy Go.”

Harwell Godfrey
IndependentsMay 01, 2024
Harwell Godfrey Opens First Store

It is located in Marin County, California.

Woman holding a dress
SurveysMay 01, 2024
Consumer Confidence Falls in April

Concerns about rising prices, politics, and global conflicts continue to dampen consumer outlook.

Syna emerald earrings
TrendsMay 01, 2024
Amanda’s Style File: All Eyes on Emeralds

May’s birthstone is beloved for its rich green hue and its versatility.

Jacqui Larsson Looking at a Diamond
SourcingMay 01, 2024
Opsydia Names New Sales and Marketing Director

Jacqui Larsson joins Opsydia with nearly two decades of experience in the industry.

Stock image crime handcuffs
CrimeMay 01, 2024
Grand Jury to Hear Case Against Jeweler Charged in Fatal Shove Following IJO Show

Last month in Dallas, David Walton pushed another jeweler, David Ettinger, who later died.

Tiffany Blue Book 2024: Tiffany Céleste Wings Pendant
CollectionsApr 30, 2024
12 Otherworldly Pieces From Tiffany & Co.’s 2024 Blue Book

The “Tiffany Céleste” collection reimagines designer Jean Schlumberger’s interpretations of the universe.

Zales 100th Anniversary Marketing Campaign
MajorsApr 30, 2024
Zales Celebrates 100 Years With New Campaign

The brand also created a 100-carat lab-grown diamond necklace in honor of its centennial.

Tim Schlick
MajorsApr 30, 2024
Platinum Guild International Appoints New CEO

Tim Schlick has been promoted from his previous position as COO.

Supplier Spotlight -GIA -Recorded-Webinar.png
Recorded WebinarsApr 29, 2024
Watch: Diamond Identification and Evaluation - How to Protect your Business

Supplier Spotlight Sponsored by GIA

De Beers polished in tweezers
SourcingApr 29, 2024
De Beers to Move Auction HQ from Singapore to Botswana

Sales will be paused while the relocation takes place over the next few months.

Simone I. Smith SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds
CollectionsApr 29, 2024
Simone I. Smith Mixes Denim and Diamonds in New Collection

“SIS x MISA Denim and Diamonds” is a collaboration between the designer and celebrity stylist Misa Hylton.

Venus Jewelers Logo
IndependentsApr 29, 2024
Venus Jewelers Relocating After 45 Years

The retailer is moving to a newly designed space in the same shopping center.

Established Mom tattoo pendant
SurveysApr 29, 2024
Mother’s Day Jewelry Spending to Reach $7B, Says NRF

Gifts that are unique and thoughtful are top of mind this year, according to the annual survey.

×

This site uses cookies to give you the best online experience. By continuing to use & browse this site, we assume you agree to our Privacy Policy