Minerals.net

The Westward look show is a unique show, and definitely worth a visit by all mineral enthusiasts. This show takes place several miles north of the main show areas, nestled in a quiet area at the foothills of the towering Santa Catalina Mountains. This rather tranquil and relaxed show far from downtown takes place in the Westward Look Resort, a sprawling yet spacious hotel complex recently acquired by Wyndham Hotels.

The Westward Look show is organized by Dave Waisman, who organizes several other “fine mineral shows” in different parts of the country at other times in the year. This show, however, is probably his most popular, taking place in the mineral show capital of the world on the weekend prior to the main show in the convention center. A nice perk to this show is its free parking and no entrance fee, despite the high-end caliber of minerals and dealers present. It’s also a very pleasant place to stroll around and enjoy the warm Tucson weather.

The show is not large. It has only about 40 dealers, with each dealer occupying a hotel room in one section of the hotel complex. However, the exhibitors are exclusively high-end dealers, with outstanding showpieces visible in all their cases. Some of the finest minerals for sale from some of the most exclusive dealers can be found for sale here. Most specimens are in the range of hundreds or thousands of dollars for single pieces, and it’s not uncommon to see price tags in the tens of thousands. Even for those who do not intend to buy, it’s well worth seeing these fantastic minerals for sale in beautifully arranged displays with bright lighting.

The Westward Look show also features a special program known as “Collector Day,” where a special guest is invited to display his or her mineral collection in the lobby of the hotel, and is present the entire day to answer any questions about the collection. This year’s collector was Evan Jones, who has one of the finest private collections of minerals of Arizona. The show also features a Sunday evening program, where well-known mineral personalities make a special presentation. This year’s program included speakers Joaquim Callen, Mark Mauthner, and Tom Spann.

Part one of the Westward Look Show Report features general show scenes, as well as some of the new mineral finds that were displayed this year. The finds could have been newly mined or recently brought to the market, or they could have been older but it was my first time seeing them.

Please note that prices have been intentionally cut or blurred out as per dealer requests. Click the pictures to see an enlarged pop-up.

You can view our February 2016 newsletter online. Please click the image below for the larger version.