Ventura Gem Show 2026: A Sparkling Ventura Tradition Returns to the Fairgrounds
Each year, rockhounds, jewelry lovers, collectors, and families from across the 805 area of California look forward to one of Ventura County’s most hands-on and educational events — the annual Ventura Gem Show. Hosted by the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, this long-running showcase transforms the fairgrounds into a treasure trove of gemstones, fossils, jewelry, and earth science discovery.
Image provided by: vgms.org (press release photo 2026)
Ventura Gem Show Event Overview
The 63rd Annual Ventura Gem, Mineral, Fossil & Jewelry Show takes place:
- Dates: March 7–8, 2026
- Hours:
- Saturday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Sunday: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
- Location: Ventura County Fairgrounds
- Admission: Free (parking fees may apply)
As one of the region’s longest-running gem and mineral events, the show blends education, artistry, and family fun — making it a must-visit annual tradition on the Ventura events calendar.
A Ventura County Tradition for Over Six Decades
Organized by the Ventura Gem & Mineral Society, the Ventura Gem Show has been inspiring curiosity about earth sciences and lapidary arts for more than 60 years.
Founded in 1944, the society began with just eight teens passionate about rocks, minerals, fossils, and jewelry-making. Today, it has grown into a thriving nonprofit educational organization supporting scholarships, school programs, field trips, and community outreach throughout Southern California.
Proceeds from the annual show help fund:
- A yearly college scholarship
- School presentations and donations
- Educational exhibits and programming
- Field trips and lapidary arts instruction
Gems, Fossils & Jewelry on Display
Inside the exhibit halls, visitors can explore dazzling displays featuring:
- Precious and semi-precious gemstones
- Rare minerals and crystal specimens
- Fossils discovered locally in Ventura County
- Award-winning handcrafted jewelry
- Lapidary arts and stone carvings
Educational exhibits often highlight California’s official state treasures — including its state mineral, gemstone, fossil, and even prehistoric life from the Ice Age.
You’ll also see how raw stones are transformed into wearable art through cutting, polishing, carving, and metalwork.
Live Demonstrations & Artisan Crafts
One of the most engaging parts of the Ventura Gem Show is watching artists at work. Live demonstrations give guests an up-close look at specialized crafts, including:
- Gemstone cutting and faceting
- Stone carving
- Silversmithing and jewelry design
- Beading and decorative arts
- Nature-inspired crafts
These demonstrations showcase the skill and patience behind every finished piece — and offer inspiration for hobbyists and collectors alike.
Gold Panning & Hands-On Fun
Ever wanted to strike gold? At the show, you can.
Experienced prospectors teach visitors the basics of gold panning, sharing techniques used throughout California’s historic gold country. Guests can even purchase “pay dirt” — sediment containing real gold flakes and nuggets — to pan onsite or take home.
It’s an interactive experience that blends history, geology, and pure excitement.
Family Activities & Kids Booth
The Ventura Gem Show is designed to spark curiosity in young explorers.
Family-friendly highlights include:
- Free polished stones for kids at the Welcome Booth
- Educational rock packets for teachers
- Hands-on kids activities with rocky prizes
- Youth-focused learning exhibits
- Information on group museum tours in Ojai
These experiences introduce children to earth sciences in a fun, tactile way — often inspiring lifelong interests.
Dealers, Auctions & Raffles
Collectors and shoppers will find plenty to browse with more than 15 dealers offering:
- Beads and jewelry supplies
- Opals, jade, and gemstones
- Crystals and mineral specimens
- Fossils and display pieces
- Finished jewelry and gifts
Additional show features include:
- Hourly silent auctions
- Raffle prizes (including cash and fine jewelry)
- A “Country Store” white elephant sale
- Plant sale and specialty items
Whether you’re a serious collector or casual shopper, there’s always a unique find waiting.
Plan Your Visit To Ventura Gem Show at Ventura County Fairgrounds
Held annually at the Ventura County Fairgrounds, the Ventura Gem Show is easy to access and perfect for a weekend outing in Ventura.
Tips for attending:
- Arrive early for the best dealer selection
- Bring cash for raffles and auctions
- Allow extra time for demonstrations and gold panning
- Plan for parking fees at the fairgrounds lot
A Must-Visit 805 Area of California Event
From glittering gemstones to prehistoric fossils and hands-on gold panning, the Ventura Gem Show blends science, art, and family entertainment into one unforgettable experience.
As one of Ventura County’s longest-running community events, it continues to educate, inspire, and bring generations together — proving that fascination with the natural world never goes out of style.