The Tucson Gem & Mineral Society event (TGMS) February 12–15. This year's theme is The Literature of Corundum, Red, White & Blue. Was a success!
The Tucson Gem & Mineral Society event (TGMS) was a great success. Its theme, "Red, White, & Blue: Celebrate the Spirit of Minerals," inspired many creative interpretations. Numerous museum displays from around the world enhanced the experience.
Our Geo-Literary Society’s educational display on the literature of corundum, red (ruby), white (sapphire), and blue (sapphire), drew many favorable comments. It can be seen here and in the BlueCap Productions video "What's Hot in Tucson 2026.”
Our distinguished author and gemologist, Richard Hughes, didn’t disappoint. Drawing in a significant number of attendees, he introduced us to the G.O.A.T. Islamic scholar al-Bírúní. In addition, he set the stage by taking us on a whirlwind tour of our planet’s evolution as it relates to gem formation. Thank you, Richard!
During the business part of the meeting, we had a drawing. We gave 4 gift certificates to the Nevada Mineral & Book Company in Orange, CA. We also announced the upcoming 20th Sinkankas Symposium with the theme “Gems & Minerals of Burma (Myanmar)." It was exciting that we could introduce 3 of the 10 speakers attending at our meeting: Richard Hughes, Dr. Rachelle Turnier, and Dr. Aaron Palke.
Our past event
Converge in September 2025
Several members of the Geo-Literary Society attended the GIA/AGS Converge in Carlsbad, California, in September 2025.
The Geo-Literary Society presented three posters in the research tract. One was “Ten Thousand Years of Collecting Malachite.” This poster featured a map of worldwide malachite localities, Atlantis, the Star of the Congo Mine specimen, and a timeline of the key publications on malachite through the ages.
The second poster was “The Literature of Gem-Bearing Granitic Pegmatites,” and the third was “Gem Mineral Localities at the Time of the Taj Mahal.” Both included maps, literature, and locality photos. A total of 34 posters were displayed in the poster session. Look for more highlights of Converge on the GIA and AGS websites.
For those who visited GIA during its open house, they saw the amazing malachite and chrysocolla specimen, Atlantis, Star of the Congo. There was also a stunning exhibit in the rotunda at the GIA campus, “Temples & Treasures.” You will have another opportunity to view both at the 20th Sinkankas Symposium at GIA Carlsbad, California, on April 25, 2026.
More about The Sinkankas Symposium
Tucson February 2025
Thank you all for attending the annual Tucson Gem and Mineral Show (TGMS). Whether you're a seasoned collector or just beginning your journey, there's something captivating for everyone. TGMS showcases a stunning array of gems, minerals, and fossils from around the world. This year, we had the privilege of hosting Dr. Ren Lu, who shared his expertise on the intriguing topic of Malachite in Ancient China. His talk added to the memorable experience for all who attended.
