Tandon Gems

Do you need a resale license to buy gemstone beads at a gem show?

Anish Tandon, Founder, Tandon GemsPublished September 13, 2026· Reviewed September 5, 2026· 2 min read

This article is a reference guide. Some older product details and imagery have been omitted pending verification. Confirm the current strand, price and quantity with Anish before ordering.

Short answer

No, you don't need a resale license to buy at public shows like InterGem; anyone can shop there. You'll only need a state seller's permit if you want wholesale-only access or to buy tax-exempt for resale. In California, apply online through the state tax agency, print the permit, and bring copies to shows that have wholesale sections.

In short

  • Public shows like InterGem sell to anyone without a resale license.
  • Wholesale-only shows or wholesale sections require a resale license.
  • A seller's permit enables tax-exempt purchases of goods you will resell.
  • In California, apply online with the state tax agency and bring printed copies.
  • Plan bead counts before the show to buy the right number of strands.

Which shows let me buy without a resale license?

Public retail gem shows, including the InterGem dates on our schedule, welcome any shopper. You can walk in, pay admission, and buy strands by the strand. We sell retail and wholesale at those events, and we'll write you a receipt with your name or business name.

Check our upcoming dates on our show schedule and plan your visit. We keep every strand labeled with stone, shape, size and cut, so checkout is quick.

When do I need a resale license at a gem show?

You'll need it when a venue is wholesale only, or when a mixed show has a wholesale section. Those areas check for a state resale certificate or seller's permit tied to a real business. Some trade events also ask for business cards and photo ID, and a few want proof of prior industry purchases.

If a floor map shows a wholesale aisle, expect screening at the entrance. If you are shopping retail that day, stay in the public sections and you can buy freely.

How do I get a California seller's permit?

Apply online through California's tax agency for a seller's permit. Register the exact business or personal name you use on your invoices and business cards. Print the permit and keep digital and paper copies with you for shows that request them.

Anish here: we see many buyers delayed because the name on their permit and card don't match. Bring a printed copy that clearly shows your legal name and business name.

What should I bring to the show checkout?

Bring business cards, a state resale license if you plan to enter wholesale sections, and a photo ID. Some shows will ask for invoices from suppliers you already buy from, so keep a few recent ones in your bag. If you want tax-exempt purchasing for resale, vendors may need your permit number on the invoice.

We can pre-pull trays if you text or email us before the show, then you can review and decide at the table.

  • Business cards with your company name and contact
  • Printed copies of your resale license or seller's permit
  • Photo ID matching the name on the permit
  • A few recent supplier invoices, if you have them

How many 6 mm beads do you need?

Plan your counts so you buy the right strands. A 7.5 in bracelet uses about 25 beads of 6 mm when you allow 1.5 in for clasp and findings. An 18 in necklace uses about 70 beads of 6 mm, and a 16 in choker uses about 61. Stretch bracelets with no clasp use the full length, so 7 in of 6 mm is about 29 beads.

Bead strands vary by cutter. A 15 to 16 inch strand of 6 mm rondelles has about 65 to 70 beads, so one strand usually covers a choker or bracelet, and two strands make most necklaces.

Where can I buy from Tandon Gems?

See current dates and cities on our show schedule. Upcoming stops include Denver, Collinsville and Philadelphia. We sell Jaipur-cut gemstone bead strands by the strand at the table.

Common questions

Can I buy at InterGem without a resale license?

Yes. InterGem consumer sections are open to the public, and we sell retail there. Only the wholesale-only areas, if present, check permits.

Will vendors charge me sales tax if I don't have a permit?

At public checkout, expect local sales tax when applicable. For resale purchases, vendors may require your valid permit and business info to waive tax on goods you'll resell.

Do I need business cards at gem shows?

They help. Many wholesale desks ask for a card, and some vendors staple one to your invoice. Keep a small stack handy.

Can hobbyists get a California seller's permit?

If you start reselling tangible goods in California, you apply for a seller's permit through the state. If you only buy for personal use, shop the public sections without one.

What if a dealer asks for proof of wholesale status?

Show your state resale license and a business card. Some shows may also ask for photo ID or recent supplier invoices before letting you purchase wholesale.

Sources and checks

  1. Jewelry and Gem Show FAQ - International Gem Society
  2. Five Tips for Your First Gem Show - International Gem Society
  3. Helpful Tips for The Tucson Gem Show

Catalog details are reference information. Ask Anish to confirm the current strand, price and availability.

Want a strand like the ones in this post?

Message Anish with the stone, shape and size you have in mind. Photos of actual strands on request.

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