Mineral Nexus
For collectors, by collectors.
Welcome to Mineral Nexus
Mineral Nexus is a fine mineral cooperative where collectors connect with collectors. We offer a one-of-a-kind selection of rare, classic, and old-stock specimens through multiple avenues. During the Tucson Gem Show, you can visit us in person to explore a wide range of minerals from over a dozen individual collectors. Throughout the year, we host live sales on social media, where you can claim specimens in real time and easily complete your purchase through our website. You can also shop online at any time, where we feature curated pieces from the personal collections of our founders, Mary Fong Walker and William Besse.
Whether you're browsing from home or walking through our space in Tucson, you're part of the Nexus.
Our Story
Mineral Nexus is the creation of Jim Walker, Mary Fong/Walker, and William Besse. As lifelong mineral collectors, they saw the need for a space built by collectors and for collectors. When the Tucson City Center closed, the mineral community lost more than just a venue. It lost a place where people could gather, share stories, admire minerals, and enjoy the hobby in a relaxed and welcoming environment.
Mineral Nexus was founded to bring that spirit back to life. We officially opened during the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show in 2024 with limited displays and a clear purpose: to offer a place where the focus is on community, not commerce. In 2025, we fully opened with expanded displays and participation, and now proudly host over 20 collectors who share a passion for minerals and a commitment to supporting one another.
Whether you are an experienced collector or just starting out, you are welcome here. We believe the best parts of the hobby happen in the connections we make, the knowledge we share, and the joy we find in discovery.
We invite you to join us, explore with us, and become part of something that honors the true spirit of collecting.
Featured Collections
Shop our collections
Frequently asked questions
What is Mineral Nexus?
Mineral Nexus is a fine mineral cooperative created by collectors, for collectors. We offer both an in-person venue during the Tucson Gem Show and an online platform where you can purchase specimens directly from the personal collections of our founders and community.
Who are the collectors behind Mineral Nexus?
Our team includes over a dozen passionate collectors, including our founders Mary Fong Walker, William Besse, and Jim Walker. Each contributes hand-selected pieces from their personal collections, offering a wide range of rare, classic, and old-stock specimens.
How do I purchase a specimen?
You can purchase a specimen in one of three ways. During our live sales on Facebook and Instagram, simply claim an item by commenting when it is shown. After the sale, search your username on our website to find your reserved pieces and proceed to checkout. You can also shop anytime through our online listings, which feature available specimens from our founders’ personal collections. If you're visiting in person during the Tucson Gem Show, you can purchase directly from the collectors on site.
I claimed something during a live—how do I find it?
Click on the Live Claims section of our website or use the search bar and type your username. All items reserved for you will appear. Still having trouble? Reach out and we’ll help you locate your claim.
How often do you update your inventory?
We update the website regularly and post new items after each live sale. For the widest variety, visit us in person during the Tucson Gem Show.