Jim Springer, owner of Dunkelberger’s Fine Jewelry, is heading into retirement.
Jacquie Aiche’s Guide to Living It Up in Tucson
After long days of sourcing, the gemstone queen shares how she likes to recharge in the desert.

Tucson, Ariz.—The industry may be in Tucson to sell and shop this week, but chances are if you ask around, you’ll find that many call AGTA, GJX and the myriad other shows their favorite set of jewelry trade shows.
Jacquie Aiche has been a Tucson fixture for years, shopping for everything from faceted gemstones to rough crystals to incorporate into her earthy, spiritual collections.
We left it to the gemstone queen to fill us in on where she likes to eat, drink and unwind in the desert, plus the million-dollar question—where to find her favorite stones.
Where to Eat
Café Poca Cosa
110 E Pennington St.
“Poca Cosa is my go-to whenever I’m craving fresh and authentic Mexican food. The menu changes daily, so there’s always something new to try.”
Maynards Market & Kitchen
400 N. Toole Ave. A
“I always make sure to have a reservation at Maynards Market & Kitchen in my Tucson travel plans. It’s built upon an old train station, so the restaurant carries a classic, romantic energy that I love.”
{embed 466}
MiAn Sushi & Modern Asian Cuisine
88 E. Broadway Blvd.
“I can never go too long without sushi … the Choi roll is a must-try.”
Goodness Fresh Food and Juice Bar
2502 N. Campbell Ave.
“I love coming here in the morning for a fresh juice or a smoothie. It’s the perfect fuel for a day full of crystal magic.”
The Tasteful Kitchen
722 N. Stone Ave.
“The best vegetarian and vegan options Tucson has to offer.”
Where to Chill Out
Hashani Spa
3800 W. Starr Pass Blvd.
“Part of the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, and offering everything from manicures, to facials, to full body massages, this is one of my favorite places to unwind and treat myself.”
Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa
5000 E Vía Estancia Miraval
“Miraval Spa is my ultimate healing sanctuary. On my last day in Tucson, once I’ve finished collecting my crystals, I come here to re-center and relax. There’s nothing better.”
{embed 467}
Tohono Chul Botanical Gardens & Galleries
7366 N Paseo Del Norte
“This is my favorite spot to find peace and connect with Mother Earth. Everything at
Where to Turn Up
JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa
3800 W. Starr Pass Blvd.
“There’s nothing like connecting with old friends around the fire pit at JW Marriott. I love the ambiance. It’s so perfect for catching up with cozy conversations.”
{embed 470}
Hotel Congress
311 Congress St.
“The scene at Hotel Congress is always alluring and energetic. I love coming here with friends to people watch.”
Where to Shop at the Shows
Gary Wilson at GJX
“I have been collecting his rocks for over 12 years. Gary has the ultimate selection of minerals and fossils and is just the greatest guy!”
{embed 469}
The Latest

When conducting its May consumer confidence survey, The Conference Board asked extra questions about consumers’ budgeting strategies.

The “Tunnel” charm, our Piece of the Week, celebrates Pride Month with its design inspired by hope and the light at the end of the tunnel.

As gold prices rise, today’s retailers are looking for alternatives at prices that will appeal to wider audiences.

The jewelry industry is reassessing its positioning as Gen Z reshapes the retail landscape and lab grown continues to gain market share.


Up for auction at Sotheby’s, the collection of Tempelsman’s personal effects includes a Cartier Tank watch Jackie O. gifted him.

The Miami-based fine jewelry brand will host its first summer residency in the Colorado mountain town from June 5 to Aug. 23.

With the trade and customer trust in mind, GIA® developed NextGem™ – on-demand training designed specifically for retail.

The organization also announced its international board of directors for the 2026-2027 term.

Saks Global confirmed the closure this week, spelling the end for a store that’s been part of downtown Dallas for more than 100 years.

Smith discusses how managers should handle a top performer's exit, warning that a poor response could have a lasting impact.

The Gemological Institute of America is now a 30 percent stakeholder in Tracr, the De Beers-backed blockchain for diamonds.

The retailer is bringing Rolex Certified Pre-Owned watches to five U.S. cities in 2026 for collectors to see, try on, and purchase.

The actress and entrepreneur stars in the jeweler’s new campaign that celebrates life’s quiet moments.

The price of gold has risen, affecting the number of pieces designers make, the materials they use, and how they position themselves.

The jewelry retailer is zeroing in on Zales, Jared, Kay Jewelers, and Blue Nile as it looks to create unique brand identities for each.

Dr. Akinwumi Adesina, a development economist, will head the fund created to help Botswana diversify its economy.

Sotheby’s has appointed the former Phillips executive as its global head of private sales and retail in its watches division.

A private collection of five Paraíba tourmalines also will be up for sale at Sotheby’s High Jewelry auction in New York, scheduled for June 16.

From Gen Z’s view of luxury to “doom spending,” these are the six consumer trends to note this year.

The show started by honoring Mildred Marcano, ended with a tearful Beth Anne Bonanno, and recognized a dozen-plus designers in between.

The revamped online diamond marketplace will feature pricing intelligence and data-driven tools for more efficient buying and selling.

The miner said demand for higher-quality emeralds is stable, but there is notable caution in the market.

The “River of Heaven” necklace, our Piece of the Week debuting at Couture, combines 26 salt and pepper diamonds spaced by Tahitian pearls.

This year’s inductees include second-, third-, and fourth-generation jewelers.

The author, speaker, and entrepreneur will give his presentation, “Spiritual Billionaire,” on Saturday morning.

Three-time Grammy award-winning artist Nelly is set to perform at the annual event at Tao Beach on Sunday night.






















