Quartzsite is one of the most popular tourism destinations in the US and Canada today. It's reputation for being a top spot to shop for and purchase gems, minerals and fancy rocks, has catapulted Quartzsite into the the public eye -- but is that enough to preserve its position in the market?

Tucson has long strived to replace Quartzsite as the 'hub' of the gem and mineral shows, bringing a new attitude to the forefront of top positioning in this lucrative market.

Unfortunately, this has had the effect of shortening Quartzsite's 'tourist season,' ultimately damaging the businesses that come here to trade.

What Quartzsite still has to offer is an affordable niche in terms of overhead: but there is serious doubt as to whether or not Quartzsite will find it possible to maintain its current position.

Already, show owners are feeling the pinch.

"We are seeing a tremendous shortening in our season and it's making it tougher for all of us," stated one show owner. "The idea that this market will be here forever, that the Town of Quartzsite doesn't have to scramble a bit to preserve this extraordinary source of revenue is ludicrous: no one will stay here if the shows fall apart.