If you love gemstones, fine jewelry, or handcrafted accessories, mark your calendar now. The International Gem and Jewelry Show is coming to San Mateo, California, this November. Running from November 27 to 29, 2026, this three-day event is one of the most exciting gem and jewelry gatherings on the West Coast. Whether you are a seasoned collector or a first-time visitor, this show has something special waiting for you.
What Is the International Gem and Jewelry Show?
The International Gem and Jewelry Show — also known as InterGem — has been running since 1967. It was founded by Herbert A. Duke, Sr., who wanted to give everyday shoppers direct access to quality jewelry without the high markup of retail stores. Today, InterGem produces over 60 shows each year across more than 35 U.S. cities. It is widely recognized as America’s longest-running direct-to-consumer jewelry show. The concept is simple. Instead of buying from a store, visitors shop directly from designers, wholesalers, manufacturers, and importers. This means lower prices, wider variety, and a far more personal shopping experience. Additionally, the marketplace format encourages healthy competition among sellers, which works in buyers’ favor.
Event Details at a Glance
Here is a quick overview of all the key information for the November 2026 San Mateo show:
| Detail | Information |
| Event Name | International Gem and Jewelry Show (InterGem) |
| Dates | November 27–29, 2026 |
| Day Range | Friday to Sunday |
| Venue | San Mateo County Event Center (Expo Hall) |
| Address | 2495 S. Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA 94403 |
| Organizer | InterGem, Inc. |
| Website | www.intergem.com |
| Phone | (800) 289-2388 |
The timing is ideal. It falls right after Thanksgiving, making it a perfect outing for holiday shoppers looking for unique gifts and one-of-a-kind pieces.
Show Hours
Knowing the show hours ahead of time helps you plan your visit. Each day has different opening and closing times, so plan accordingly.
| Day | Hours |
| Friday, November 27 | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Saturday, November 28 | 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Sunday, November 29 | 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
Please note that no admission is allowed after 4:00 PM on Sunday. Therefore, if you plan to visit on the last day, arriving early in the afternoon is strongly advised. 
Ticket Prices and Admission Information
One of the biggest draws of InterGem is its affordable admission. The tickets are reasonably priced, and a single ticket covers all three days of the show. This means you can come back on multiple days without paying again.
| Ticket Type | Price |
| Discounted Presale (online, card only) | $6.00 |
| Standard Admission (at the door, cash only) | $8.00 |
| Licensed Wholesale Buyers | Free (pre-registration required) |
| Active Military, Veterans and Immediate Family | Free (valid military ID required) |
| Schools (teachers, students, staff) | Free (school email, pre-registration required) |
Buying your ticket online in advance is the smarter choice. You save money and avoid waiting in line at the door. Also, note that the door price requires cash, while the online option accepts credit cards only. Tickets are non-refundable and cannot be transferred. There is one age restriction to be aware of: children under 9 years old are not permitted at the show. Additionally, photography is not allowed inside the venue, so keep that in mind before you pack your camera.
Venue: San Mateo County Event Center
The show takes place at the San Mateo County Event Center, a large and well-equipped facility in the heart of San Mateo, California. The Expo Hall is spacious enough to accommodate hundreds of exhibitor booths spread across organized sections. The venue is easy to find and has good transport links from surrounding Bay Area cities. Parking is available on-site. However, availability can vary on busy weekend days, so arriving early is always a good idea. ADA-accessible parking is provided to ensure the event is welcoming to all visitors. If you prefer public transport, San Mateo is well-served by Caltrain and several bus routes.
What to Expect from Exhibitors
The show floor is packed with vendors from across the United States and internationally. Exhibitors represent a wide range of specialties. Here is a look at the product categories you can expect to find:
- Diamonds and precious gemstones
- Pearls and pearl jewelry
- Opals, turquoise, and semi-precious stones
- Fine jewelry including rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets
- Vintage and estate jewelry pieces
- Men’s jewelry and watches
- Beads and jewelry-making supplies
- Findings, chains, settings, and clasps
- Custom and handcrafted finished jewelry
- Designer accessories and costume jewelry
- Jewelry cleaning and repair services
This diversity is one of the biggest selling points of the event. Whether you want to buy a finished engagement ring or source raw materials for your own designs, you will find it all under one roof. Furthermore, the direct-to-seller format means you can negotiate, ask questions, and learn about each piece directly from the person who made or sourced it.
Who Should Attend?
The November show in San Mateo draws a remarkably mixed crowd. There is no single type of visitor, which is part of what makes the atmosphere so lively and interesting. Casual shoppers come to find holiday gifts and treat themselves to something special. The post-Thanksgiving timing makes it an ideal alternative to crowded malls and big-box stores. However, the show is equally popular among serious collectors who are searching for rare stones, vintage estate pieces, or unique designer creations. Jewelry designers and goldsmiths also attend in large numbers. They use the show as a sourcing opportunity, picking up beads, findings, settings, and stones for their own work. Registered wholesale buyers can even enter for free, provided they pre-register with a valid business license before the deadline.
Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit
A little preparation goes a long way at a show this size. Here are some practical tips to help you have the best experience possible:
- Arrive early, especially on Saturday, since that is typically the busiest day. The show opens at 10:00 AM on Saturday, giving you maximum time to browse.
- Wear comfortable shoes. The Expo Hall is large, and you will be on your feet for most of your visit.
- Bring a small tote bag or backpack. You will likely walk away with purchases and possibly brochures from vendors.
- Set a rough budget before you arrive. It is easy to fall in love with something unexpected, so knowing your spending limit in advance helps.
- Do not hesitate to ask vendors questions. Most exhibitors love talking about their craft, and conversations often lead to better deals.
- If you are interested in wholesale buying or free school admission, pre-register on the InterGem website well ahead of the event.
- Remember: no photography inside the venue.
Why the November Dates Are Perfect
The November 27–29 window is strategically placed right after Thanksgiving weekend. Many visitors use this time for holiday shopping, and the show offers something that typical retail stores simply cannot match: genuine uniqueness. Every piece on the floor has a story. You are not picking up a mass-produced item from a shelf. Instead, you are choosing from handcrafted, imported, or estate-sourced items with real character. Additionally, if you are shopping for someone special, buying directly from a jeweler means you can ask for customizations or get expert guidance on stone selection, quality, and care.
About InterGem: A Legacy of Over 59 Years
InterGem, Inc. has been organizing this type of event since 1967, making it one of the oldest and most trusted names in the jewelry show business. The company is Maryland-based and runs shows across dozens of markets, including major cities like Los Angeles, Houston, Chicago, and the Bay Area. San Mateo is one of several California stops on their annual tour. The organization prides itself on creating a marketplace where buyers get real value. By removing the retail middleman, shoppers can access competitive pricing that would otherwise be unavailable to them. Moreover, the long history of the show has helped build a loyal community of repeat visitors who come back year after year.
Conclusion
The International Gem and Jewelry Show at San Mateo in November 2026 is a must-visit event for anyone who loves gems, fine jewelry, or unique accessories. Running from November 27 to 29 at the San Mateo County Event Center, it offers affordable admission, a vast range of exhibitors, and a welcoming atmosphere for shoppers of all kinds. Tickets start at just $6 online and cover all three days. Hours vary by day, so planning ahead is essential. Whether you are searching for a holiday gift, sourcing materials for your craft, or simply exploring the world of fine gemstones, this show delivers on every level. Book your tickets early, plan your visit, and get ready for a truly memorable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the International Gem and Jewelry Show in San Mateo in 2026?
The show runs from Friday, November 27, to Sunday, November 29, 2026.
Where is the show held?
It takes place at the San Mateo County Event Center (Expo Hall), located at 2495 S. Delaware Street, San Mateo, CA 94403.
How much do tickets cost?
Online presale tickets are $6 (credit card only). Standard door admission is $8 (cash only). One ticket covers all three days.
Is there free admission for anyone?
Yes. Active military, veterans and their immediate family (with valid military ID), licensed wholesale buyers, and school staff or students (with a school email and prior registration) all enter for free.
What are the show hours?
Friday: 12:00 PM–6:00 PM. Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM. Sunday: 11:00 AM–5:00 PM (no entry after 4:00 PM).
Are children allowed?
Children under the age of 9 are not permitted at the show.
Is photography allowed inside?
No. Photography is not allowed inside the venue.
Can I buy jewelry-making supplies at the show?
Yes. Many exhibitors sell beads, findings, settings, chains, and other jewelry-making materials alongside finished pieces.
Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, parking is available at the San Mateo County Event Center. ADA-accessible parking is also provided. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot.
How do I get discounted or free tickets?
Purchase tickets online at www.intergem.com before the event for the $6 discounted rate. Free admission categories require pre-registration on the same site before the stated deadline.
