A venerable tradition of fine jewelry, rare gems, and direct-to-consumer deals returns to Pasadena this November as America’s longest-running direct-to-consumer jewelry trade show sets up shop at the Pasadena Convention Center.
The International Gem & Jewelry Show, operating for over 57 years since its founding in 1967, will transform the Convention Center’s Hall B at 300 East Green Street into a three-day marketplace from November 22-24, 2024, offering everything from $1 strips of beads to $23,000 opal brooch pieces.
The show represents a significant economic driver for Pasadena, part of a convention circuit that generated over $30 million in economic impact for the city in 2019. It also holds the distinction of being the first public event to reopen the Convention Center following its 15-month COVID-19 closure in July 2021.
Visitors can bypass traditional retail markups by purchasing directly from designers, wholesalers, and manufacturers. The exhibition floor features an extensive collection of diamonds, gemstones, pearls, estate and antique jewelry, handcrafted pieces, watches and accessories, gold and silver items, opals, minerals, crystals, and comprehensive DIY jewelry-making supplies.
Licensed wholesale buyers who present a state business license, business card, or other approved documentation can access exclusive wholesale-only sections (when applicable) after completing pre-registration by November 20. The show extends free admission to active-duty military, veterans, and their immediate families with current military identification. Additionally, teachers, students, and staff from qualifying educational programs who register with their school email address before the deadline receive free admission, offering valuable exposure to gemology and jewelry design.
Some vendors offer jewelry cleaning and repair services on-site, while the show’s educational component provides opportunities for students interested in gemology and jewelry design to learn directly from industry professionals.
All admission tickets are valid for all three days of the show, allowing visitors to fully explore the extensive offerings and potentially secure better deals through extended shopping opportunities.
General admission tickets are available online for $6 via credit card only (with no refunds or transfers permitted), representing a 25% discount from the $8 cash-only door price.
The show runs Friday (12 p.m. – 6 p.m.), Saturday (10 a.m. – 6 p.m.), and Sunday (11 a.m. – 5 p.m.), with no admittance after 4 p.m. on Sunday. Children under nine are not permitted.
For more information or to purchase discounted tickets, click here.
