If you love gems, jewelry, and great deals, you have one unmissable event to circle on your calendar. The International Gem and Jewelry Show is coming to Pasadena, California, from December 4 to 6, 2026. This three-day marketplace lets you shop directly from designers, wholesalers, and manufacturers. There is no retail markup, no middleman, and no shortage of stunning finds.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Whether you are a seasoned collector, a first-time visitor, or a jewelry-making enthusiast, this guide covers everything you need to know before you walk through the doors.
What Is the International Gem and Jewelry Show?
The International Gem and Jewelry Show is produced by InterGem, Inc., a Maryland-based company that has been running traveling gem and jewelry marketplaces since 1967. The show was founded by Herbert A. Duke, Sr. and is currently operated by his son, Arnold Duke.
For nearly six decades, the event has grown into one of America’s most respected direct-to-consumer jewelry showcases. It visits more than 35 U.S. cities every year, making over 60 stops annually. Pasadena is one of its most popular and recurring destinations.
The concept is simple but powerful. Instead of shopping at a retail store, visitors walk through rows of vendor booths and buy straight from the source. This setup creates real savings for buyers and a direct connection between customers and craftspeople.
Event Details at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | International Gem and Jewelry Show |
| Dates | December 4–6, 2026 |
| Venue | Pasadena Convention Center, Hall B |
| Address | 300 East Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91101 |
| Organizer | InterGem, Inc. |
| Admission (Online) | $6.00 (credit card only) |
| Admission (At Door) | $8.00 (cash only) |
| Ticket Coverage | All three days |
| Children Policy | Children under 9 not permitted |
| Photography | Not allowed inside the show |
Show Hours for December 4–6, 2026
Planning your visit around the right hours is important. The show runs on a different schedule each day, so knowing when to arrive will help you make the most of your time.
| Day | Hours |
| Friday, December 4 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday, December 5 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday, December 6 | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Please note that on Sunday, December 6, no admittance is allowed after 4:00 PM. Additionally, Saturday offers the longest window and tends to draw the largest crowds. Therefore, if you prefer a slightly quieter experience, consider arriving on Friday afternoon or early Sunday morning.
Ticket Prices and How to Buy
Tickets are valid for all three days of the show. This means you can come and go throughout the weekend with just one purchase. There are no refunds or transfers, so plan your dates carefully before buying.
Online tickets cost $6.00 and must be purchased by credit card through the InterGem website. This is the most affordable option and also the most convenient. Standard tickets purchased at the venue entrance cost $8.00 and are cash only. No card payments are accepted at the door.
Free Admission Categories
Several groups qualify for free entry. However, most require pre-registration before a set deadline. The categories include:
- Licensed wholesale buyers (business license required)
- Active-duty military members and veterans (with valid military ID)
- Immediate family members of active-duty and veteran military
- Teachers, students, and school staff (valid school email required)
If you fall into one of these groups, visit the InterGem website early to register before the deadline passes.
Venue: Pasadena Convention Center
The show takes place in Hall B of the Pasadena Convention Center, a well-known venue located in the heart of Old Pasadena. The center is modern, air-conditioned, and spacious, making it comfortable to browse for extended periods.
The address is 300 East Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91101. Parking is available in the underground garage at 175 South Euclid Avenue. The venue is also accessible by public transit. The Memorial Park and Del Mar stations on the Metro Gold Line are both within about a ten-minute walk.
The convention center sits close to excellent restaurants, coffee shops, and other attractions. Therefore, you can make a full day of your visit by combining shopping with a meal or a stroll through Old Pasadena afterward.
What to Expect Inside: Exhibitors and Products
The show floor is organized as a marketplace setting with rows of booths from a wide variety of vendors. Exhibitors include independent designers, gem dealers, manufacturers, and repair specialists. Each vendor brings their own inventory, which means the selection changes with every event.
Categories of Products Available
Visitors can expect to find a remarkable range of items across different price points and styles. Here is what is typically on offer:
- Loose diamonds and gemstones
- Beads and beaded strands
- Freshwater and cultured pearls
- Opals, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and other precious stones
- Semi-precious gemstones including turquoise, amethyst, and topaz
- Fine jewelry in gold, silver, and platinum
- Engagement rings and wedding bands
- Watches and timepieces
- Vintage and estate jewelry
- Antique pieces and collectible jewelry
- Men’s jewelry including chains, rings, and cufflinks
- Costume and fashion accessories
- Custom jewelry and bespoke pieces
- Jewelry-making supplies and findings
- Chains, clasps, settings, and tools for DIY jewelry
- Jewelry cleaning and repair services
This diverse mix makes the show equally appealing to buyers looking for a finished piece and to hobbyists who prefer to create their own designs.
Who Should Attend?
The show genuinely has something for everyone. However, certain visitors will find it especially rewarding.
Collectors and enthusiasts will appreciate the variety of rare gemstones and estate pieces available in one location. You are unlikely to find this concentration of vendors at any standard retail strip.
Buyers on a budget will benefit greatly from the direct-from-wholesaler pricing model. Without a retail store adding markup, prices tend to be significantly lower than what you would see in a mall or jewelry shop.
Jewelry makers and hobbyists will find an outstanding selection of beads, findings, loose stones, and supplies. Many vendors cater specifically to the DIY community with bulk pricing available.
Gift shoppers will have no trouble finding something unique and personal. From affordable fashion jewelry to high-end fine pieces, there is something at every price level.
Wholesale buyers and trade professionals receive free admission, making the show a valuable business opportunity as well as a consumer event.
Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
A little preparation goes a long way at a show of this size. Here are practical tips to help you have the best possible experience.
Arrive with a plan. The show floor can be large and busy, especially on Saturday. Knowing what you are looking for before you arrive will help you stay focused and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
Bring cash for the door if you plan to buy a ticket at the entrance. Online buyers should have their confirmation ready on their phone or printed out. Remember that photography is not permitted inside the show, so there is no need to have your camera out.
Wear comfortable shoes. You will likely spend two to three hours on your feet, walking from booth to booth. Comfortable footwear makes a real difference.
Come with an open mind. Some of the best finds at gem shows are unexpected. Many visitors discover a stone or piece they had never considered before, and those often turn into the most cherished purchases.
Ask questions. Vendors at this show are generally knowledgeable and passionate about their products. Do not hesitate to ask about the origin of a stone, the metal used in a piece, or whether custom sizing is available.
How the December 2026 Show Fits Into Pasadena’s Holiday Season
Timing the show over December 4–6, 2026 is no coincidence. The holiday season makes it the ideal moment to shop for unique gifts. Instead of browsing the same mass-produced jewelry found in department stores, attendees can find one-of-a-kind pieces with real character and history.
Pasadena itself is a beautiful destination in December. The city is festively decorated, the weather is mild compared to most of the country, and the surrounding area offers excellent dining and entertainment. Combining a trip to the gem show with broader holiday activities in Pasadena makes for a genuinely memorable weekend.
A Brief History of InterGem and Why It Matters
InterGem, Inc. has been producing gem and jewelry shows since 1967. That makes the organization nearly 60 years old, which is a remarkable milestone in the world of consumer trade shows. The company has kept its original mission intact throughout that time: connect everyday buyers directly with the people who make, cut, and sell gems and jewelry.
The show visits communities across the country, from large metropolitan areas to mid-sized cities. This commitment to accessibility is one reason the show has maintained such a loyal following over the decades. Regular attendees often return year after year, sometimes traveling significant distances to shop their favorite vendors.
For Pasadena specifically, the show has become a recurring highlight of the local events calendar. The city hosts the show multiple times a year, and each visit draws a steady crowd of both local residents and visitors from across Southern California.
Nearby Accommodations and Getting Around
If you are traveling to Pasadena specifically for the show, there are several hotel options within easy distance of the convention center. The city center has a good mix of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly options to boutique hotels.
The Metro Gold Line offers a convenient and affordable way to get to the venue without dealing with parking. The Memorial Park station is close to the convention center and connects easily to central Los Angeles. For those driving, the underground garage on South Euclid Avenue is the most convenient parking option.
Old Pasadena itself is walkable, charming, and full of good restaurants, cafes, and shops. After a few hours at the gem show, taking a short walk along Colorado Boulevard makes for a natural and enjoyable finish to the day.
Conclusion
The International Gem and Jewelry Show in Pasadena on December 4–6, 2026, is a standout event for anyone who appreciates fine jewelry, gemstones, or the art of jewelry making. The show brings together dozens of vendors in a welcoming marketplace where visitors can shop directly from wholesalers and manufacturers at prices well below typical retail.
With affordable ticket options starting at just $6 online, free admission for qualifying groups, and a wide selection of products spanning diamonds, pearls, vintage pieces, loose stones, and supplies, there is genuine value for visitors at every interest level and budget. The Pasadena Convention Center provides a comfortable and central venue, and the December timing makes it a perfect destination for holiday gift shopping.
Plan your visit early, buy your tickets online to save money, and arrive ready to explore. Whether you leave with a single special piece or an entire bag of finds, this is one event that rewards every visit.
10 Popular FAQs
When is the International Gem and Jewelry Show in Pasadena in 2026?
The December 2026 edition runs from Friday, December 4 through Sunday, December 6, 2026.
Where is the show held?
The show takes place at the Pasadena Convention Center, Hall B, at 300 East Green Street, Pasadena, CA 91101.
How much do tickets cost?
Online tickets cost $6.00 (credit card only). Tickets at the door cost $8.00 (cash only). One ticket covers all three days.
Who gets free admission?
Licensed wholesale buyers, active-duty military and veterans with immediate family, and qualifying school staff and students can enter free with proper documentation and pre-registration.
Can children attend the show?
Children under the age of 9 are not permitted at the show.
Is photography allowed inside?
Photography is not allowed inside the venue. Visitors should keep cameras and phones away while browsing.
What kinds of products are sold at the show?
Vendors sell diamonds, pearls, opals, gemstones, fine jewelry, vintage and estate pieces, engagement rings, watches, beads, and jewelry-making supplies, among many other items.
Can I buy directly from the vendors?
The show is structured as a direct-to-consumer marketplace where you buy straight from designers, wholesalers, and manufacturers without a retail middleman.
How do I get to the Pasadena Convention Center?
You can drive and park at the underground garage at 175 South Euclid Avenue, or take the Metro Gold Line to the Memorial Park or Del Mar station, both about a ten-minute walk from the venue.
Are tickets refundable or transferable?
All ticket sales are final. No refunds or transfers are offered under any circumstances.