Silver Jewelry show sparkles at rec center

With Sam Conn/Sun-News reporter

Article Launched: 08/31/2008 01:00:00 AM MDT

Contributed by James Allen .com

More than a thousand people are expected to visit this year's Silver Jewelry Show

SILVER CITY — For the past 25 years, it has been a silver jewelry and gem event that many look forward to — and not just folks from Silver City.

"It's the first silver jewelry and gem show I have been to in 20 years," said Randy Foster of Nashville. "This is the reason we came to Silver City this week."

Every year, the Grant County Rolling Stones go out of their way to make sure there is something for everyone. Of course, you will find gems and minerals in every shape and size, some raw, others cut, and then, if you want something really fancy, they will even polish them for you. But, it really is a lot more to it than that. You can find jewelry, huge sea shells and even belt buckles made out of bullets.

"I think it's one of the best shows they have had in years," said Patricia Falley of Silver City. "The quality is good and the prices are right."

Vendors from all over the Southwest have come to Silver City for the three-day silver jewelry and gem event, which started Saturday and runs through Monday.

Local silver jewelry and gem artists are also well represented. "We have some fabulous local talent," said organizer Judy Allen. "We have some of the best artists in the Southwest right here in Grant County."

Artists seemed pleased with how fast folks were snapping up the sparkling silver jewelry, gems and other jewels.

"Good, very good," said Therese Higgins, who is also known as Silver City's Jewelry Lady. "They barely advertised last year, but this year they did, and it has been very good."

"It is a a little smaller crowd than last year, but it's a good silver jewelry and gem show," vendor Joe Harris said.

Organizers are hoping that nice weather will bring more than 1,000 visitors to the long weekend event. "The weather has been wonderful so far," said Allen. "Just look at this weather. The vendors are really happy."

The best part of the silver jewelry and gem show for many is the price tag — admission is free. You can also catch a free ride from the Burger King parking lot on the Corre Caminos shuttle bus every 20 minutes. The show runs today from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Monday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Silver City Recreation Center. If you are not familiar with the area, just follow the signs.

If you go

What: Rolling Stones Gem & Mineral Show

When: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. today; 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday

Where: Silver City Recreation Center, Gold Street. If you are not familiar with the area, just follow the signs.