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Dallas, TX--The American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) has canceled the 2021 AGTA GemFair in Tucson. The decision to cancel the show follows on the heels of JCK Tucson, GJX, and the Tucson Gem and Mineral Showcase, all of which announced last month that their February 2021 events would not be held. AGTA, however, was holding out hope that it would be able to pull off its show with extensive pandemic safety protocols. Image: The Tucson Convention Center, home of AGTA GemFair.

“We have worked hand-in-hand with the many show producers in Tucson, and the Pima County Health Department to develop a show that could be safe and conscientious,” said Douglas K. Hucker, AGTA CEO.  “Unfortunately, with the trajectory of the spread of the coronavirus, the requirements we would need to meet to produce the show, and the health risks associated with a gathering of this size have made the GemFair 2021 untenable and Pima County Health Department has chosen to deny our application for the event.” 2021 would have been the 39th AGTA GemFair Tucson show.

“GemFair Tucson has always been a bedrock of our organization,” said Ruben Bindra, AGTA President, “it has provided our members with an unparalleled opportunity for commerce and has evolved over the years into an unmatched event that has brought us together each year with all of our friends and family that share our passion for colored gems and cultured pearls. This is a heartbreaking decision, but one that was made in the best interest of all of our attendees.”

“While times are certainly strange right now, it’s important that AGTA works to find new ways to facilitate trade for our members and buyers,” continued Hucker. "Whether that be through virtual tradeshows, educational seminars, social media outreach, or online special events, the AGTA will be here to provide those services until we can all meet again in person.”

The next AGTA GemFair is scheduled for Las Vegas in June 2021, with final dates to be confirmed. The dates for the 2022 AGTA GemFair are February 1 – 6, 2022.

The 2021 Centurion Jewelry Show, which normally immediately precedes Tucson, has been rescheduled for March 20-24 (including arrival and departure) at the JW Marriott Desert Ridge in Phoenix, AZ. Click here to access the 2021 Show Guide, which explains the adjustments and pandemic protocols in place for the 2021 event.