When it comes to rare stones, minerals, crystals, and other rock formations that come from the earth, few have it all like CanGems’ Rock N’ Gem Shows. Over 350 tables stretched across the Lord Beaverbrook Rink in Saint John this long weekend, each covered in various jewels, minerals, fossils, and more. The Saint John stopped marked the end to the touring shows first ever maritime swing. The showcase had previously made stops in Fredericton, Moncton, and Sydney in the weekends prior. Melissa Robak is the show operator and owner of Silver Cove, which she says is Canada’s largest gem and mineral company. She says the feedback from East Coast rock fanatics has been overwhelming from more than just your typical crystal lovers. “What’s really unique is to hear the comments from [those dragged by others to the show who’s like, you know, I didn’t actually think I was going to like this,” says Robak. “We’ve got entire section just dedicated to Canadian minerals so you can really explore your own space, but you can also almost tour the world just by walking through the show.” Minerals displayed come from a wide range of countries including Mexico and Brazil. Robak says the event is directed at being something the whole family can enjoy, and you don’t have to be a “rockhound” to enjoy the showcase. The group has 47 shows in Canada in 2026, but Robak says plans are already underway to return to the East Coast next year. The news of a return is welcomed by shoppers who have longer for something like this to come to the city. “I can’t believe how big it is, there’s so much to look at,” says a pair of rock shoppers. “We love going to St. Martins and looking at the rocks there, so we’ve been big fans of all of this.” “I was quite impressed by what they have down there,” says shopper Eric Coombs, who purchased a large fish fossil at the event. “I’m very excited with what we got today.” While the show already features a wide range of Canadian gems and minerals, the showcase could soon feature even more. The federal government has made a push in the past year to produce more within its own borders, which includes mineral harvesting. Last week the New Brunswick government unveil a new minerals act, which the province hopes will lead to an revitalization of the sector. For show vendors like the Crystal Keeper, the thought of more domestic product to offer at shows like these is exciting. “Canada is very prosperous and has like a lot of unique crystals and minerals to extract,” says Roman Blago. “I think that can help Canada in general with economical plans and also provide new jobs so it’s very good.” Robak also shares the excitement of more minerals mined in Canada. She says Brazil has become world renowned from a rich assortment of various minerals and gems, and believes Canada isn’t far behind. “If you actually walk into the average gem and mineral store, probably 60 per cent of what’s in there is from Brazil,” says Robak. “When you actually get looking in Canada, some of the best mineral specimens I have ever seen, some of the best potential is right here at home and we to see that coming through and we are seeing a bit of a resurgence which is amazing.” Robak notes that mining must be done responsible and not to the detriment of the environment, something she believes can be done with proper planning and modern technology. For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
