Jacquie Aiche’s Guide to Living It Up in Tucson

After long days of sourcing, the gemstone queen shares how she likes to recharge in the desert.

Ashley Davis Ashley.Davis@nationaljeweler.com

A 14-karat yellow gold, chrysophrase and diamond necklace from Jacquie Aiche ($9,750)

Tucson, Ariz.—The industry may be in Tucson to sell and shop this week, but chances are if you ask around, you’ll find that many call AGTA, GJX and the myriad other shows their favorite set of jewelry trade shows.

Jacquie Aiche is a perennial Tucson visitor and has sourced the area’s best spots for hanging her hat when she’s done gem shopping for the day. Why? Tucson isn’t a bad place to be in the dead of winter. Between the weather and the endless gemstone inspiration available, the desert is the perfect place for designers to recharge.

Jacquie Aiche has been a Tucson fixture for years, shopping for everything from faceted gemstones to rough crystals to incorporate into her earthy, spiritual collections.

We left it to the gemstone queen to fill us in on where she likes to eat, drink and unwind in the desert, plus the million-dollar question—where to find her favorite stones.

Where to Eat

Café Poca Cosa
110 E Pennington St.
“Poca Cosa is my go-to whenever I’m craving fresh and authentic Mexican food. The menu changes daily, so there’s always something new to try.”

Maynards Market & Kitchen
400 N. Toole Ave. A
“I always make sure to have a reservation at Maynards Market & Kitchen in my Tucson travel plans. It’s built upon an old train station, so the restaurant carries a classic, romantic energy that I love.”

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MiAn Sushi & Modern Asian Cuisine
88 E. Broadway Blvd.
“I can never go too long without sushi … the Choi roll is a must-try.”

Goodness Fresh Food and Juice Bar
2502 N. Campbell Ave.
“I love coming here in the morning for a fresh juice or a smoothie. It’s the perfect fuel for a day full of crystal magic.”

The Tasteful Kitchen
722 N. Stone Ave.
“The best vegetarian and vegan options Tucson has to offer.”

Where to Chill Out

Hashani Spa
3800 W. Starr Pass Blvd.
“Part of the JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa, and offering everything from manicures, to facials, to full body massages, this is one of my favorite places to unwind and treat myself.”

Miraval Arizona Resort & Spa
5000 E Vía Estancia Miraval
“Miraval Spa is my ultimate healing sanctuary. On my last day in Tucson, once I’ve finished collecting my crystals, I come here to re-center and relax. There’s nothing better.”

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Tohono Chul Botanical Gardens & Galleries
7366 N Paseo Del Norte
“This is my favorite spot to find peace and connect with Mother Earth. Everything at

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Tohono Chul Gardens—the flowers, the monarch butterflies, the nature trails—is all so ethereal.

Where to Turn Up

JW Marriott Tucson Starr Pass Resort & Spa
3800 W. Starr Pass Blvd.
“There’s nothing like connecting with old friends around the fire pit at JW Marriott. I love the ambiance. It’s so perfect for catching up with cozy conversations.”

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Hotel Congress
311 Congress St.
“The scene at Hotel Congress is always alluring and energetic. I love coming here with friends to people watch.”

Where to Shop at the Shows

Gary Wilson at GJX
“I have been collecting his rocks for over 12 years. Gary has the ultimate selection of minerals and fossils and is just the greatest guy!”

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Ashley Davisis the senior editor, fashion at National Jeweler, covering all things related to design, style and trends.