The annual Tucson Gem and Mineral show is a huge event that draws more than 100,000 to the city each year to look at hundreds of thousands of minerals, gems, meteorites, beads, pieces of jewelry, and other items that rock and gem folks just love — and all of it’s for sale. The show is the biggest event within the meteorite world and brings together hundreds of dealers and collectors. This year, Editor David J. Eicher spent 5 days checking out the “satellite shows” and the main show, talking to collectors and shooting video.
While at the 2011 Tucson Gem and Mineral Show, Editor Dave Eicher had the chance to interview Geoff Notkin and Steve Arnold, better-known as the Meteorite Men, as well as Anne Black, a world-renowned meteorite collector. Click on the image to go to the videos. David J. Eicher photo
First, Dave had the chance to spend a half-hour with collectors Geoff Notkin and Steve Arnold, better known as the Science Channel’s
Meteorite Men. In a five-part interview, Geoff and Steve share memories from the show and plans for upcoming episodes, as well as discuss amateur involvement in meteoritics and the different paths of specialization in collecting.
Then, Geoff spent some time taking Dave through the Aerolite Meteorites room (Geoff's company). While in Tucson, Geoff displayed a large Moon rock, a variety of historic pieces, and a 328-pound Nantan iron meteorite, among other treasures.
And finally, Dave visited Anne Black of Impactika and took a tour of her room, as well. Anne is well-known for her vast collection of thin sections, which she had on hand — all 275 of them!
To see all of Dave’s videos, check out the 2011 Tucson Gem and Mineral Show page in the Trips & Tours area of Astronomy.com. Be sure to check out his blog entries and photos from the show, as well.