Is InterGem worth it for bead buyers?
Yes. If you want to compare gemstone strands side by side and select exact color and cut, an InterGem weekend pays off. It's a traveling public gem and jewelry show with a strong mix of gemstone beads, plus pearls and findings. Some tools too. Expect fewer seed bead specialists and fewer niche lampwork or vintage-only dealers than at bead-only festivals.
What will I find there, and what will I miss?
We typically see multiple gemstone bead vendors, assorted pearls and metal findings. You will also find chain and basic tools, plus some lapidary material. There is often finished jewelry around the floor, which is useful for design ideas though we sell only strands. If your list is heavy on Japanese seed beads or artisan lampwork, selection may be thinner than a seed-bead focused show. The same goes for very specific vintage components.
How should I prep to buy strands at a show?
Make a simple list by stone, shape, size and target lengths. Bring a small ruler or calipers and a short test string with common bead sizes to compare on the spot. Photograph your current projects so you can match tones under the same light. If you want to keep shopping time short, stack-rank your must-buys.
Our stones guide helps with sizing language, and our shop shows how we label stone and size, with cut noted the same way you'll see at our booth.
- Measure wrist and desired necklace lengths in inches.
- Note clasp type, since a clasp shortens beaded length.
- Carry a small zip bag for each project with notes and swatches.
- Slip vendor cards or receipts into each bag for later reorders.
How many 6 mm beads do you need?
For a 7.5 inch bracelet with a clasp, the beaded run is about 6 inches, so you need about 25 beads of 6 mm. A stretch 7 inch bracelet uses about 29 beads of 6 mm. An 18 inch necklace uses about 70 beads of 6 mm, and a 16 inch choker uses about 61. Knotting between beads adds about 1 mm per knot, so account for that.
A 15 to 16 inch strand of 6 mm rondelles has about 65 to 70 beads. One strand usually covers a bracelet or choker. Two strands can make a longer necklace. Counts vary slightly by cut and how tightly the strand is strung.
Should I buy at the show or from you online?
Where can I see Tandon Gems next?
We sell Jaipur-cut gemstone bead strands at InterGem stops and online. Upcoming dates: Denver, CO 2026-09-10 to 2026-09-13 at The Brighton. Collinsville, IL 2026-09-18 to 2026-09-20 at Gateway Center (Center Hall & Ballroom). Philadelphia, PA 2026-09-25 to 2026-09-27 at Greater Philadelphia Expo Center At Oaks (Hall C).
See our full schedule on the shows page. To reserve strands or request photos, WhatsApp +1 408-702-7405 or email tandongems@outlook.com. Anish Tandon.