With across-the-board price hikes, buyers were quality-conscious and compromise-readyThe consensus after the 2014 Tucson gem shows is that the market is improving. No single gem stood out this year. But spinel attracted a lot of attention. Beryl and tourmaline were also noticeably better represented. In finer grades, prices on both gems were appreciably higher compared with those recorded at last year’s show.Fine quality zircon has also seen a price increase. Prices of $200–$250 per carat were seen for some larger (5–10 ct.) brown, yellow, purplish red, and green zircons. These were particularly popular. There were also numerous gemmy blue zircon specimens priced around $160–$250 per carat, a slight increase from last year.Turnout was a big unknown for many exhibitors heading into the AGTA GemFair. Results from the 2013 holiday were mixed, with sales fizzling for many independent