The Colorado Mineral & Fossil Fall Show, a well-established haven for mineral and fossil collectors, stands out with its exceptional blend of high-quality vendors, educational exhibits, and family-friendly activities. CMFS has two shows annually, one in April and another in September. Under Sandra Gonzales' ownership and management, the CMFS September show has become a pillar of the Denver Gem & Mineral Showcase and one of the region's top shows in April. The Colorado Mineral & Fossil Fall Show has moved to a new location in September. You can now experience the show September 5-13, 2025, at the Delta Hotel, 10 E. 120th Ave., Northglenn, Colorado. The CMFS Spring show has also moved. It is now located at the National Western Complex, 4655 Humboldt St. in Denver.
Passing the Torch: The Changing Faces of The Colorado Mineral & Fossil Shows
The CMFS shows have been running for over thirty years and are deeply rooted in the Denver community. Before Gonzales took the reins, one of the world's top gem, mineral, and fossil show promoters, Martin Zinn, expertly ran the annual fall and spring shows for over twenty years. When Zinn decided to retire in 2015, Gonzales saw an opportunity to continue the tradition by purchasing both CMFS shows. Gonzales' experience, dedication, and passion have been critical to the continued success of the CMFS shows.
Gonzales earned an undergraduate degree in recreational therapy and worked with both adult and adolescent patients dealing with spinal cord injuries, head trauma, stroke, neurological disorders, and substance abuse. Her passion for organizational excellence and compassion led to a master's degree in organizational management, which enabled her to manage hospital departments. This experience has proven incredibly useful in show promotion.
Years later, Gonzales shifted her career focus to her lifelong passion for rocks and minerals. She was once a vendor when she purchased a prominent mineral collection. Gonzales sold off this collection before realizing her passion was promoting mineral and fossil shows. She says she shares her love for minerals, people, and learning through show promotion while indulging in rock-hounding adventures that have yielded incredible finds. Gonzales fully engages in all facets of the gem and mineral show business.
A Diverse Global Market & Education Community
What sets the CMFS shows apart is their global mix of exhibitors. As Gonzales puts it, "I have dealers from all over the world who have some of the most beautiful minerals, gemstones, and fossils available for purchase." This diverse market includes exhibitors offering everything from rough gemstones to finished jewelry to minerals and fossils, educational exhibits, and talks. The CMFS shows are more than just shows, they're hubs of learning and inspiration. In 2024, for example, the show featured two guest speakers: Craig Hazelton, who discussed "Wyoming Jade: New Information About Our Regional Treasure," and Walt Gaylord, who spoke on "The Geology of the Elmwood Mining Complex."
Gonzales reflects, "Our shows are also a foundation that unites people worldwide, fostering a vibrant and inclusive environment where friendships form and passions are shared."
Education is a cornerstone of all five successful shows organized by RMGM (Rocky Mountain Gem and Mineral) Promotions, the event promotion company headed by Gonzales. A highlight of her recent Texas shows was the display of a moon rock on loan from NASA, captivating attendees with this rare and extraordinary piece of space history. The shows often offer jewelry-making classes where participants can create, providing a creative outlet that deepens attendees' appreciation for the artistry and craftsmanship of working with gemstones and minerals.
*With five dynamic shows under her expert guidance—two in Denver (Fall and Spring), two in Texas (Plano and Conroe, both in the spring), and one in Tucson—Gonzales' influence on the mineral and fossil community continues to grow. A dedication to providing quality events, fostering education, and creating memorable experiences for attendees of diverse backgrounds are evident in every aspect of any RMGM Promotions event. For show information (venue address, contact info, dates,
Colorado Mineral & Fossil Fall Show
Colorado Mineral & Fossil Spring Show
RMGM Tucson Mineral & Fossil Show