OK I am hoping I didn't bite off more than I can chew. I am totally new at this...buying gems and minerals and I have taken the plunge and now looking at the different shows...I am hyper-ventilating! Where to begin? How do you know good vendors? Does anyone have any suggestions for finding reputable dealers...looking for pearls...turquoise,amber...gemstones Does anyone have any direction or suggestion on how to dothis besides jump in...which it appears i have done. I design jewelry and I sell small scale but I like good quality. Also does anyone know anyone who sells Turkish silver//?? much thanks

The show in the Holidome is far the best one for those things ...

Feb. 7-14

Gem & Lapidary Wholesalers Holiday Inn/Holidome I-10 at Palo Verde Rd.; 4550 S. Palo Verde Rd. Advance Information: Margaret Hopson, (601) 879-8832; fax (601) 879-3282; e-mail margaret@glwshows.net; Web site www.glwshows.net. *Wholesale Only Go to Lucky Gems for pearls and the Thomason's booth for turquoise. It's easy to spot the big players in silver. Choose which has best quality, selection and price. I usually find good amber from a Russian gentleman in the other big tent show that's on the other side of the Holidome's parking lot.

Thank you so much.  It's good to have a starting point....Changed dates of my trip to include your recommendations.  Much appreciated.  Will look for all mentioned.

Kathleen