Thousands of enthusiasts gathered at the Cohere Centre this weekend for the Ottawa Rock N' Gem show to browse a massive selection of rare treasures. The event featured over 350 tables displaying tens of thousands of stones, including crystals, minerals, fossils, and fine jewelry sourced from across the globe.

Why are people collecting gems?

Interest in the hobby stems from a variety of motivations. For some, the appeal lies in the physical structure of a crystal or its geographic origin. Others are drawn to the metaphysical properties associated with specific stones.

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Attendees reported different ways of selecting items:

  • Following an instinctual connection to a stone's "energy."
  • Searching for specific specimens to add to existing collections.
  • Looking for aesthetic beauty or "shiny things."

Is the hobby getting more expensive?

While the passion for collecting remains strong, the cost of certain items has risen. According to show manager Dylan Beaver, jewelry prices have seen a sharp increase recently. This trend is driven largely by the climbing value of precious metals, specifically silver. As a result, many jewelry pieces at the expo were crafted using .925 sterling silver.

How did the show begin?

The Rock N' Gem show has a long history of growth. It was originally established by owners Chris and Melissa Robak as a small hobby at farmers markets in Alberta back in 2007. Since those early beginnings, the event has expanded into a major showcase that attracts large crowds of dedicated collectors.

Event logistics and access

The weekend event was held at the Cohere Centre (formerly the EY Centre) in Hall 4. For those attending the final sessions, single tickets were priced at $3, while family passes were available for $7. Children aged five and under were permitted to attend for free. While the show provided a wide variety of items for all ages, visitors were reminded that parking at the venue required an additional fee.

FAQ

What kind of items were on display?

The expo featured a wide range of items including gemstones, minerals, fossils, and various pieces of handcrafted jewelry.

Where did the items come from?

The stones and specimens showcased at the event were gathered from all across the world.