If you love jewelry, rare gemstones, or unique handcrafted pieces, you will not want to miss the International Gem and Jewelry Show coming to San Mateo this November. The event runs from Friday, November 27 through Sunday, November 29, 2026, and it promises to be one of the most exciting shopping experiences of the year. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a returning enthusiast, this guide covers everything you need to know before you go.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!What Is the International Gem and Jewelry Show?
The International Gem and Jewelry Show, also known as InterGem, is America’s longest-running direct-to-consumer jewelry show. Founded in 1967, it has been connecting buyers directly with manufacturers, designers, wholesalers, and importers for nearly six decades. Today, the show visits more than 35 cities and holds over 60 events each year across the United States.
The San Mateo edition is one of its most popular stops. It draws a wide audience, from everyday shoppers looking for a special gift, to professional jewelers, collectors, and artisans sourcing materials for their craft. The show takes place at the San Mateo County Event Center, a well-known venue with over 200,000 square feet of exhibit space.
Additionally, the show is held multiple times a year in San Mateo, making the November edition a particularly festive visit — falling right after Thanksgiving weekend.
Event Details at a Glance
Here is a quick summary of everything you need to know about the November 2026 event:
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | International Gem and Jewelry Show (InterGem) |
| Dates | November 27–29, 2026 |
| Day | Friday to Sunday |
| Venue | San Mateo County Event Center (Expo Hall) |
| Address | 2495 S. Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA 94403 |
| Organizer | InterGem, Inc. |
| Website | www.intergem.com |
| Admission | $6 presale / $8 at the door |
Show Hours
The event follows a structured daily schedule. Plan your visit around these times to make the most of your day.
| Day | Hours |
| Friday, November 27 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday, November 28 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday, November 29 | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM (No entry after 4:00 PM) |
Saturday offers the most time on the show floor. Therefore, if you can only attend one day, Saturday is your best choice. However, Sunday can be equally rewarding, as some vendors offer last-day deals to move their inventory.
Ticket Information and Pricing
Getting your ticket in advance will save you both time and money. Online presale tickets are priced at $6, while walk-in admission at the door costs $8 (cash only at the door). One ticket covers all three days of the show, so you can come and go freely throughout the weekend.
Several groups enjoy free admission with proper identification or pre-registration:
- Active-duty military members, veterans, and their immediate families (military ID required)
- Licensed wholesale buyers (pre-registration required)
- Qualifying teachers, students, and staff with a valid school email address
Children under 9 years of age generally enter free. However, it is advisable to confirm this policy on the official InterGem website before your visit, as terms can vary by location.
Tickets can be purchased online through the InterGem website. Pre-registration deadlines for free-admission categories often close a few days before the show begins, so registering early is essential.
Venue: San Mateo County Event Center
The San Mateo County Event Center is a premier venue located just 10 minutes south of San Francisco International Airport. It is conveniently accessible from the 92 and 101 freeways, making it easy to reach from the Bay Area and beyond.
The facility features over 200,000 square feet of indoor exhibit space spread across multiple halls. For the gem and jewelry show, the Expo Hall serves as the main event space. The venue also offers ample parking and is accessible for visitors with disabilities.
If you are traveling from outside the area, many hotels are located nearby. Booking accommodations in advance is recommended, especially during the Thanksgiving holiday weekend when rooms fill up quickly.
What to Expect: Products and Exhibitors
The show floor is a treasure trove of gems, jewelry, and accessories. Hundreds of vendors set up rows of displays, creating a vibrant marketplace atmosphere. Because buyers deal directly with the source, prices are far lower than typical retail stores.
Here is a look at the types of products you can expect to find:
Fine Jewelry and Precious Stones
- Diamonds and engagement rings
- Loose gemstones (rubies, sapphires, emeralds, and more)
- Pearls and opals
- Gold and silver jewelry
- Platinum pieces
Fashion and Lifestyle
- Costume and fashion jewelry
- Watches and accessories
- Hair accessories
- Handcrafted artisan pieces
Vintage and Specialty
- Antique and estate jewelry
- Minerals and crystals
- Collector-grade gemstones
Supplies and Services
- Beads and findings
- Chains and settings
- Jewelry-making supplies
- Jewelry cleaning and repair services on-site
Whether you are searching for a one-of-a-kind engagement ring, a set of loose sapphires for a custom piece, or basic beading supplies, the show has something for nearly every budget and taste.
Who Attends the Show?
The International Gem and Jewelry Show attracts a remarkably diverse crowd. Casual shoppers come looking for gifts and personal accessories. Jewelry designers and artisans attend to stock up on gemstones, findings, and raw materials. Collectors seek rare minerals and vintage estate pieces. Retail jewelers and wholesalers attend specifically to source new inventory.
Additionally, the event welcomes trade professionals through a dedicated wholesale buyer registration program. If you hold a reseller license, registering in advance can unlock free entry and access to exclusive wholesale pricing.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Visiting a large gem and jewelry show for the first time can feel overwhelming. However, a little planning goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most from your visit.
Arrive Early The doors open at noon on Friday and 10 AM on Saturday. Arriving early means fewer crowds and first pick of the best pieces. Popular vendors can sell out of their top items by midday.
Bring Cash While many vendors accept credit cards, some smaller dealers prefer cash. Bringing a mix of both ensures you never miss out on a great deal.
Wear Comfortable Shoes The show floor is large. You will spend several hours on your feet walking through rows of displays. Comfortable footwear makes a big difference.
Set a Budget It is easy to fall in love with many pieces at once. Setting a spending limit before you walk in helps you stay focused and enjoy the experience without regret.
Ask Questions Vendors at InterGem are knowledgeable and passionate about their products. Do not hesitate to ask about gem origins, quality grades, or custom order options. Most are happy to share their expertise.
Bring a List If you are shopping for something specific — a loose stone for a ring, a particular bead color, or a gift for someone — write it down. Having a list keeps you on track.
Why Shop at the International Gem and Jewelry Show?
Shopping directly from manufacturers and wholesalers is the biggest draw of InterGem. Retail stores typically mark up jewelry by 50 to 100 percent or more. At this show, you eliminate the middleman entirely. Therefore, you often find comparable quality at a fraction of the retail price.
Furthermore, the sheer variety on display is unmatched. You can compare pieces from dozens of vendors side by side. This makes it much easier to find exactly what you want at the right price. No single retail store can offer that kind of range under one roof.
For artisans and designers, the show is an invaluable sourcing event. You can find rare gems, specialty beads, and professional-grade supplies that are simply not available in local craft stores. Many jewelry makers plan their entire creative calendar around their InterGem visits.
Getting There: Transportation and Parking
The San Mateo County Event Center is easy to reach by car or public transit.
By Car: The venue sits near the intersection of Highways 92 and 101. Parking is available on-site. Note that parking fees may apply, and rates can vary. Plan to arrive a few minutes early to find a spot, especially on Saturday when attendance peaks.
By Train: Caltrain’s Hillsdale Station is within a short distance of the venue. From San Francisco or San Jose, Caltrain provides a convenient and stress-free option, especially during the busy holiday weekend.
By Air: San Francisco International Airport (SFO) is approximately 10 minutes away by car. This makes the venue a straightforward destination for out-of-town visitors flying in for the event.
Nearby Attractions and Dining
San Mateo offers a pleasant mix of dining, shopping, and leisure options near the Event Center. After a long day on the show floor, you have plenty of choices for food and relaxation.
- Downtown San Mateo features a wide range of restaurants, from casual eateries to fine dining spots.
- The Hillsdale Shopping Center is nearby and offers additional retail options.
- Coyote Point Regional Park provides a scenic outdoor escape if you want to enjoy the Bay Area’s natural beauty.
Many visitors turn the weekend into a short getaway, combining the show with a visit to San Francisco or the surrounding Bay Area.
Conclusion
The International Gem and Jewelry Show in San Mateo, running from November 27 to 29, 2026, is a must-attend event for anyone who loves jewelry, gemstones, or unique handcrafted accessories. Held at the San Mateo County Event Center, it brings together hundreds of vendors offering diamonds, pearls, loose gemstones, estate pieces, artisan jewelry, and much more — all at direct-from-the-source prices.
Tickets are affordable, starting at just $6 online, and a single ticket grants you access for all three days. Show hours vary by day, with Saturday offering the longest window for shopping. Free admission is available for military members, wholesale buyers, and qualifying educators.
Whether you are a casual shopper, a dedicated collector, or a professional in the industry, this show delivers an experience that no ordinary jewelry store can match. Plan your trip early, book your hotel in advance, and get ready for one of the Bay Area’s finest gem and jewelry events of the year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When is the International Gem and Jewelry Show in San Mateo in 2026?
The November 2026 edition runs from Friday, November 27 through Sunday, November 29, 2026.
Where is the show held?
The show takes place at the San Mateo County Event Center, Expo Hall, located at 2495 S. Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA 94403.
How much do tickets cost?
Online presale tickets cost $6. Walk-in admission at the door is $8 (cash only). One ticket is valid for all three days.
Can I get free admission?
Yes. Active-duty military, veterans, and their families enter free with military ID. Licensed wholesale buyers and qualifying school staff or students may also register for free admission online before the show.
What are the show hours?
Friday runs from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM, Saturday from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and Sunday from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. No entry is permitted after 4:00 PM on Sunday.
What types of items are sold at the show?
You can find diamonds, loose gemstones, pearls, opals, fine jewelry, estate and antique pieces, watches, beads, findings, jewelry-making supplies, minerals, crystals, and much more.
Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, parking is available at the San Mateo County Event Center. Fees may apply, and rates are subject to change. Arriving early is recommended on busier days.
Is the event open to the public or trade only?
The show is open to both the general public and trade professionals. Wholesale buyers can register separately for trade access and pricing.
Are children allowed at the show?
Yes, children are welcome. Children under 9 generally enter free, though it is best to verify this policy on the InterGem website before attending.
Who organizes the International Gem and Jewelry Show?
The show is organized by InterGem, Inc., a Maryland-based company founded in 1967. It is considered America’s longest-running direct-to-consumer jewelry show.